Scalloped Potatoes vs. Potatoes Au Gratin: What’s the Difference?
For many years, I believed that scalloped potatoes and potatoes au gratin were essentially the same dish. However, I’ve learned that there is a distinct difference between the two.
Scalloped Potatoes: Potatoes cooked in cream.
Potatoes Au Gratin: Potatoes baked with cheese.
I personally enjoy both the richness of a creamy base and the delightful crunch of a cheesy topping. That’s why I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that combines the best of both worlds: Scalloped Potatoes au Gratin! This dish offers the comforting creaminess of scalloped potatoes with the added flavor and texture of a perfectly browned cheese topping.
Customizing Your Scalloped Potatoes au Gratin: Dairy Options and More
While I’ve personally reduced my consumption of milk and cheese after discovering a slight dairy intolerance, I’m fortunate enough not to have a severe allergy. This allows me to indulge in dairy occasionally, and when I do, I want it to be truly worthwhile. This Scalloped Potatoes au Gratin recipe certainly fits the bill!
Traditionally, scalloped potatoes are made with full-fat heavy cream. I’ve prepared this dish using heavy cream in the past, but more recently, I’ve found that using 1% milk yields equally creamy and delicious results. Therefore, this recipe calls for 1% milk. However, if you prefer the richness of full-fat cream, feel free to use it.
For those who are dairy-free, this recipe can easily be adapted using dairy-free alternatives. Almond milk or soy milk (coconut milk is not recommended) can be used in place of regular milk, and vegan cheese can be substituted for traditional cheese.
Choosing the Right Baking Dish for Your Potatoes au Gratin
I’ve prepared this recipe in a large round baking pan before, but I prefer baking the potatoes in smaller, individual-sized portions. I believe that this method ensures that each bite contains a perfect balance of layered textures, from the crispy cheese to the tender potatoes. Trust me, you’ll want that delightful au gratin crunch in every single bite!
The baking dishes pictured here are 5-inch round ramekin dishes. However, any shallow, round porcelain baking dish will work well. Au gratin baking dishes are also a great option, as are creme brulee ramekin sets, which come in a variety of fun colors.
Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Marlynn Schotland
15 mins
35 mins
50 mins
4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large baking potatoes, very finely sliced
- 1 cup 1% milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage, divided in half
- 1 teaspoon finely minced garlic clove
- ¼ cup of grated mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Lightly grease four small baking dishes with butter, set aside.
- Mix together grated mozarella cheese and grated cheddar cheese in a small bowl, and set aside.
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
- In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, add milk, butter, paprika, 1/2 tablespoon sage, and garlic. Bring to a low boil, then lower heat to medium-low and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, arrange one layer of potato slices so that the bottom of each baking dish is covered, allowing the slices to slightly overlap each other in a fan formation.
- Remove milk mixture from heat. Pour a small amount, about 3 tablespoons, evenly over the first layer of potato slices.
- Sprinkle a thin layer of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese mixture over each serving.
- Repeat with another layer of potatoes, milk mixture, and cheese. Depending on the size of your baking dishes, you may have enough for a third layer.
- Once your potatoes reach the top of the baking dish sides, add your final layer: evenly sprinkle each serving with a layer of parmesan cheese.
- Place the baking dishes onto a large baking sheet and place in the oven. Bake at 375 degrees for 30-35 minutes, just until the top layer crisps into a golden color.
- After removing from the oven, allow the potatoes to rest at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
These Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are a few suggestions:
Manchego Cheese-Stuffed Spanish Meatballs
Red Wine-Braised Slow Cooker Short Ribs
Easy Honey Baked Chicken
Or, consider serving them with a classic, hearty chicken recipe. Stay tuned for that recipe coming soon!