Scalloped potatoes are a rich, creamy, and cheesy dish that often takes center stage at family dinners and festive holiday meals. But what should you serve alongside this indulgent side? In this guide, we’ll explore the best main dishes, vegetables, and salads to serve with scalloped potatoes to create a well-rounded meal.
Perfect Main Dishes to Pair with Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of hearty proteins. Here are some of the best options:
- Ham: One of the classic pairings for scalloped potatoes is ham. The salty, savory flavors of ham perfectly balance the creaminess of the potatoes. Check out these delicious ham recipes to find the perfect ham dish for your meal.
- Fried Pork Chops: The crispy texture of fried pork chops contrasts beautifully with the soft and cheesy scalloped potatoes. The savory flavors of the pork bring out the richness of the dish, making it a satisfying combination.
- Rosemary Chicken: For a lighter pairing, rosemary chicken is an excellent choice. The herby notes of the chicken complement the creamy potatoes without overpowering them. Plus, the crisp skin of the chicken adds an extra layer of texture.
Seafood Options to Pair with Scalloped Potatoes
Although most people associate scalloped potatoes with meat, seafood can be an equally delightful option. The lighter, fresher flavors of seafood provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the potatoes.
- Salmon: The fatty richness of salmon pairs beautifully with creamy potatoes. Whether grilled or baked, salmon provides a hearty yet lighter protein option. If you’re looking to complement the meal with veggies, try these roasted Brussels sprouts for an extra side.
- Teriyaki Salmon Salad: For a lighter twist, consider serving teriyaki salmon salad alongside your potatoes. The sweet and tangy teriyaki flavors bring brightness to the meal, while the salad adds freshness to balance the richness of the potatoes.
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Lemon garlic shrimp is another excellent option. The bright, zesty flavors of the shrimp cut through the creamy potatoes, making for a delightful, lighter main dish.
Vegetables That Go Well with the recipes
Adding a vegetable side dish not only enhances the flavor of the meal but also brings balance to the richness of scalloped potatoes. Here are some vegetable options that pair beautifully with this dish:
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: The earthy, slightly bitter taste of roasted Brussels sprouts, combined with the crispy, savory flavor of bacon, creates a delicious contrast to the creamy potatoes.
- Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Roasted or sautéed asparagus with a touch of lemon zest brings a fresh and citrusy note to the meal, lightening the overall richness.
- Green Bean Almondine: This classic French dish combines crisp green beans with toasted almonds, adding a nutty crunch that works well alongside the soft, creamy potatoes.
Salad Options to Serve with Scalloped Potatoes
Salads are a great way to bring freshness and crunch to a meal featuring scalloped potatoes. Here are a few salads that complement the dish perfectly:
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh, light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing adds crispness and acidity to balance the creamy potatoes.
- Caesar Salad: For a bolder option, a Caesar salad with creamy dressing, crunchy croutons, and salty Parmesan is a great pairing. The strong flavors of the salad can stand up to the richness of scalloped potatoes.
Bread and Starch Pairings
Adding a bread or starch side dish can help soak up the delicious creamy sauce of the potatoes. Here are a few tasty options:
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery dinner rolls are a classic choice that can help round out the meal.
- Garlic Bread: The crunchy, garlicky flavor of garlic bread pairs well with the cheesy, creamy texture of the potatoes.
- Cornbread: The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread adds a new flavor profile to the meal, complementing the savory potatoes.
Ideal Holiday Combinations
Scalloped potatoes are often served during holidays, and they fit perfectly into festive meals. Consider these combinations for your next celebration:
- Thanksgiving Dinner: Serve scalloped potatoes with roast turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for a hearty, classic Thanksgiving meal.
- Beef Wellington: For a luxurious holiday meal, scalloped potatoes go wonderfully with Beef Wellington. The rich beef and pastry combined with creamy potatoes make an indulgent, memorable feast.
Conclusion
Scalloped potatoes are a versatile dish that can be paired with a wide variety of main dishes, vegetables, and salads to create a balanced, satisfying meal. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or a grand holiday feast, these pairing suggestions will ensure your meal is delicious and well-rounded.