Contents
Intro
If you’re asking what is the difference between au gratin and scalloped potatoes, you’re not alone! These two creamy, layered potato dishes are often confused. But each has its unique twist that makes them stand out. Let’s dive into their definitions, ingredients, preparation methods, cooking techniques, and serving suggestions. You’ll be the potato pro in no time!
Definitions
So, what exactly are these dishes?
Scalloped potatoes are typically made with thinly sliced potatoes layered and baked in a creamy sauce, which often includes milk or cream. Sounds simple, right? This dish doesn’t necessarily call for cheese, although some people love to add it for extra richness.
On the flip side, au gratin potatoes are like scalloped potatoes’ cheese-loving sibling. They also feature thinly sliced potatoes, but the key difference is that au gratin dishes are usually topped with cheese before they’re baked. This gives them that glorious golden crust we all crave! It’s that crispy texture that takes them up a notch, making them a favorite for many.
Ingredients
Moving on to ingredients!
For scalloped potatoes, the essentials include:
– Potatoes
– Milk or cream
– Butter
– Flour (to thicken)
– Garlic and onions can add extra flavor, too!
On the other hand, if you’re whipping up a batch of au gratin potatoes, you’ll need a few additional items:
– Potatoes
– Heavy cream
– Cheese (Gruyère, cheddar, or whatever your heart desires)
– The usual butter, garlic, and seasonings
Remember, the cheese is what really sets au gratin apart!
Preparation Methods
Let’s talk prep! Here’s how you can cook these dishes. For scalloped potatoes:
1. Start by slicing your potatoes thinly.
2. In a saucepan, melt your butter and add flour to create a roux.
3. Gradually add your milk or cream until smooth.
4. Layer the potatoes in a baking dish, pouring the creamy sauce over each layer.
5. Bake until bubbly and golden.
Pretty straightforward, right?
Now for au gratin potatoes:
1. Slice your potatoes – the thinner, the better!
2. Prepare the cheese sauce by melting butter, adding flour, and whisking in heavy cream.
3. Once it’s smooth, stir in your cheese until it melts. Yum!
4. Layer your potatoes in a baking dish, pour the cheesy goodness on top and sprinkle with more cheese.
5. Bake until everything is bubbly and fringed in a crispy top.
Cooking Techniques
When it comes to cooking, both dishes require a bit of patience.
Scalloped potatoes usually bake at around 350°F for about 45 minutes to an hour until the potatoes are tender and the top is slightly caramelized.
For au gratin potatoes, you want that cheesy top nice and golden, so it often bakes at 375°F for about the same duration. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Serving Suggestions
Now, let’s look at how to serve these lovely dishes.
I love serving scalloped potatoes alongside juicy meats like ham or roasted chicken. It really makes for a hearty meal that your guests will rave about! You can also throw in some roasted veggies for a complete dining experience.
For au gratin potatoes, the same ideas apply, but I find they’re especially delightful at holiday gatherings. The rich flavors complement Christmas ham or Thanksgiving turkey so well. Plus, who can resist that cheesy topping?
Key Differences
So why all this fuss about the differences?
In a nutshell, the main distinction is the cheese. Au gratin potatoes have it, while scalloped potatoes may not. This impacts not just the flavor, but also the texture, making au gratin richer and heartier. Both are delicious in their own right, but if you’re after that crispy, cheesy top, go for au gratin!
Conclusion
Potatoes are a versatile ingredient, and knowing the difference between au gratin and scalloped potatoes will spice up your culinary game. Dive in, give these recipes a try, and let me know how it goes in the comments!
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