Scalloped potatoes, with their creamy, cheesy layers, are a beloved side dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. But what goes well with scalloped potatoes? This comprehensive guide explores the best pairings for scalloped potatoes, from meats and vegetables to beverages and sauces. Whether you’re preparing a festive holiday meal or a cozy family dinner, these pairing suggestions will elevate your scalloped potatoes to new culinary heights.
What Goes Well with Scalloped Potatoes?
Classic Meat Pairings
Beef
Beef, with its rich and robust flavors, pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of scalloped potatoes.
Best Beef Pairings for Scalloped Potatoes:
| Beef Type | Preparation Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prime Rib | Roasted | Juicy and flavorful |
| Ribeye Steak | Grilled or pan-seared | Rich and marbled |
| Beef Tenderloin | Roasted | Tender and succulent |
| Pot Roast | Braised | Hearty and savory |
Pork
Pork’s mild yet savory profile complements the creamy and cheesy goodness of scalloped potatoes.
Best Pork Pairings for Scalloped Potatoes:
| Pork Type | Preparation Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pork Chops | Grilled or pan-fried | Juicy and flavorful |
| Ham | Baked | Sweet and savory |
| Pork Tenderloin | Roasted | Tender and lean |
| Bacon | Fried or baked | Crispy and smoky |
Chicken
Chicken provides a versatile and lighter option to pair with scalloped potatoes.
Best Chicken Pairings for Scalloped Potatoes:
| Chicken Type | Preparation Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted Chicken | Roasted | Juicy and tender |
| Grilled Chicken | Grilled | Smoky and flavorful |
| Chicken Thighs | Baked or braised | Juicy and rich |
| Chicken Breast | Grilled or roasted | Lean and tender |
Lamb
Lamb’s distinct flavor can create a gourmet pairing with scalloped potatoes.
Best Lamb Pairings for Scalloped Potatoes:
| Lamb Type | Preparation Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lamb Chops | Grilled or pan-seared | Tender and flavorful |
| Leg of Lamb | Roasted | Rich and savory |
| Lamb Shank | Braised | Tender and hearty |
| Lamb Loin | Grilled or roasted | Juicy and flavorful |
Seafood Pairings
Fish
Certain types of fish can offer a delightful contrast to the richness of scalloped potatoes.
Best Fish Pairings for Scalloped Potatoes:
| Fish Type | Preparation Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Salmon | Grilled or baked | Rich and oily |
| Cod | Baked or pan-seared | Mild and flaky |
| Halibut | Grilled or baked | Firm and flavorful |
| Sea Bass | Pan-seared or baked | Delicate and tender |
Shellfish
Shellfish, with their sweet and briny flavors, can elevate a dish of scalloped potatoes.
Best Shellfish Pairings for Scalloped Potatoes:
| Shellfish Type | Preparation Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | Grilled or sautéed | Sweet and tender |
| Scallops | Pan-seared or grilled | Sweet and buttery |
| Lobster | Boiled or grilled | Rich and succulent |
| Crab | Steamed or baked | Sweet and tender |
Vegetable Pairings
Green Vegetables
Green vegetables can add a fresh and vibrant contrast to the rich flavors of scalloped potatoes.
Best Green Vegetable Pairings for Scalloped Potatoes:
| Vegetable Type | Preparation Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Green Beans | Steamed or sautéed | Crisp and fresh |
| Asparagus | Roasted or grilled | Tender and slightly bitter |
| Brussels Sprouts | Roasted or sautéed | Nutty and slightly bitter |
| Spinach | Sautéed or creamed | Earthy and tender |
Root Vegetables
Root vegetables can complement the hearty nature of scalloped potatoes.
Best Root Vegetable Pairings for Scalloped Potatoes:
| Vegetable Type | Preparation Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Carrots | Roasted or steamed | Sweet and crunchy |
| Parsnips | Roasted or mashed | Sweet and earthy |
| Beets | Roasted or pickled | Earthy and sweet |
| Turnips | Roasted or mashed | Mild and slightly bitter |
Condiment and Sauce Pairings
Mustards
Mustards add a tangy kick that complements the creamy richness of scalloped potatoes.
Best Mustard Pairings for Scalloped Potatoes:
| Mustard Type | Flavor Profile | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dijon Mustard | Smooth and tangy | Elegant and refined |
| Yellow Mustard | Mild and slightly tangy | Classic and versatile |
| Whole Grain Mustard | Textured and tangy | Rustic and flavorful |
| Spicy Brown Mustard | Spicy and robust | Adds a punch of flavor |
Sauces
The right sauce can enhance the flavor profile of scalloped potatoes.
Best Sauce Pairings for Scalloped Potatoes:
| Sauce Type | Key Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hollandaise | Butter, egg yolk, lemon | Rich and creamy |
| Béarnaise | Butter, egg yolk, tarragon | Rich and aromatic |
| Mushroom Sauce | Mushrooms, cream, garlic | Earthy and savory |
| Garlic Butter | Butter, garlic, herbs | Rich and flavorful |
Bread and Starch Pairings
Breads
Breads can provide a comforting and starchy balance to the creamy texture of scalloped potatoes.
Best Bread Pairings for Scalloped Potatoes:
| Bread Type | Preparation Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| French Baguette | Toasted or fresh | Crispy and chewy |
| Sourdough | Toasted or fresh | Tangy and hearty |
| Dinner Rolls | Baked | Soft and fluffy |
| Garlic Bread | Toasted | Crispy and flavorful |
Grains
Pairing scalloped potatoes with grains can create a filling and balanced meal.
Best Grain Pairings for Scalloped Potatoes:
| Grain Type | Preparation Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rice | Boiled or steamed | Soft and fluffy |
| Quinoa | Boiled or steamed | Nutty and fluffy |
| Barley | Boiled or stewed | Chewy and hearty |
| Couscous | Steamed | Light and fluffy |
Beverage Pairings
Wine
Pairing scalloped potatoes with the right wine can enhance the flavors of both the dish and the drink.
Best Wine Pairings for Scalloped Potatoes:
| Wine Type | Flavor Profile | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chardonnay | Rich and buttery | Smoothens the creaminess |
| Sauvignon Blanc | Crisp and acidic | Cuts through the richness |
| Pinot Noir | Light and fruity | Adds a delicate contrast |
| Merlot | Rich and smooth | Balances the creaminess |
Beer
Beer is a traditional pairing with scalloped potatoes, especially in casual settings.
Best Beer Pairings for Scalloped Potatoes:
| Beer Type | Flavor Profile | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pilsner | Crisp and light | Refreshing and balanced |
| Lager | Light and crisp | Classic and versatile |
| Pale Ale | Hoppy and slightly bitter | Adds a punch of flavor |
| Stout | Rich and creamy | Complements the creaminess |
Innovative Pairings
Exotic Flavors
Experimenting with exotic flavors can add an exciting twist to your scalloped potato dishes.
Best Exotic Flavor Pairings for Scalloped Potatoes:
| Flavor Type | Key Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Curry | Turmeric, cumin, coriander | Warm and spicy |
| Wasabi | Wasabi paste, soy sauce | Spicy and pungent |
| Harissa | Chili peppers, garlic, spices | Spicy and aromatic |
| Miso | Fermented soybeans, salt | Savory and umami |
Conclusion
Scalloped potatoes are a versatile and delicious side dish that pairs well with a wide range of meats, vegetables, condiments, and beverages. Whether you prefer classic pairings like roast beef and green beans or more adventurous combinations like curry and quinoa, there are endless possibilities to explore. By carefully selecting complementary flavors and textures, you can elevate your scalloped potatoes to new culinary heights and create memorable meals that delight your taste buds.
FAQs
What meat goes well with scalloped potatoes?
Beef, pork, chicken, and lamb are excellent meats to pair with scalloped potatoes, providing a rich and savory balance to their creamy texture.
Can I pair scalloped potatoes with seafood?
Yes, seafood such as salmon, shrimp, cod, and scallops can pair well with scalloped potatoes, offering a unique and delightful combination.
What vegetables complement scalloped potatoes?
Green vegetables like green beans, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and spinach, as well as root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, beets, and turnips, complement scalloped potatoes nicely.
What are some good condiment pairings for scalloped potatoes?
Mustards (Dijon, yellow, spicy brown, whole grain) and sauces (hollandaise, béarnaise, mushroom sauce, garlic butter) are excellent condiments to pair with scalloped potatoes.
What beverages go well with scalloped potatoes?
Wines like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Merlot, as well as beers like Pilsner, Lager, Pale Ale, and Stout, pair well with scalloped potatoes, enhancing their flavors.