What’s the difference between scalloped and au gratin potatoes? These two classic potato dishes are often confused due to their similar appearance and preparation methods. While they both involve layering potatoes with cream or cheese, there are distinct differences in texture, flavor, and presentation that set them apart.
Scalloped potatoes, also known as potato gratin, are a rich and creamy dish made by layering thinly sliced potatoes with cream or a cream-based sauce. The key to achieving the perfect scalloped potatoes lies in the even distribution of the ingredients and the slow cooking process, which allows the flavors to meld together. The result is a tender, soft potato with a golden, crispy top. Scalloped potatoes are often seasoned with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic, but the dish can also be enhanced with herbs such as thyme or rosemary.
On the other hand, au gratin potatoes are a simpler, more rustic dish that consists of thinly sliced potatoes layered with a cheese sauce. Unlike scalloped potatoes, au gratin potatoes have a drier texture and a more robust flavor due to the higher cheese-to-potato ratio. The cheese sauce is typically made with a roux, which provides a rich, creamy base for the cheese. The top of the dish is sprinkled with additional cheese, which browns and becomes crispy during the baking process. This gives au gratin potatoes a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the soft, tender interior.
One of the most noticeable differences between the two dishes is their presentation. Scalloped potatoes are typically served in a single layer, with the top layer of potatoes being the most golden and crispy. In contrast, au gratin potatoes are often served in a casserole dish, with layers of potatoes and cheese visible throughout the dish. This gives au gratin potatoes a more rustic and homely appearance.
In terms of preparation, scalloped potatoes require a slow cooking process, usually in the oven or a slow cooker, to allow the flavors to develop and the potatoes to become tender. Au gratin potatoes, on the other hand, can be made in the oven or on the stove, and they often benefit from a high oven temperature to achieve that perfect crispy top.
In conclusion, while scalloped and au gratin potatoes share some similarities, such as their use of potatoes and cheese, they differ significantly in texture, flavor, and presentation. Scalloped potatoes offer a creamy, tender texture with a golden, crispy top, while au gratin potatoes provide a rustic, crunchy exterior with a rich, cheesy interior. Both dishes are delicious in their own right and can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course.
