When it comes to delicious potato-based dishes, both scalloped potatoes and cheesy potatoes are crowd favorites. Although the two may seem similar, they have distinct differences that set them apart in terms of ingredients, preparation, and overall flavor. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right dish for your next meal.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between scalloped potatoes and cheesy potatoes so you can impress your family or guests with the perfect dish for any occasion.
Defining the Classic Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are a classic side dish known for their creamy, tender layers of sliced potatoes. Traditionally, scalloped potatoes are made with a simple cream sauce made from milk, butter, and flour, and they do not include cheese. This dish is then baked until the potatoes are tender and the cream sauce has thickened.
For a deeper dive into traditional potato dishes, you might want to check out our Ultimate Guide to Casseroles, which covers different types of casseroles, including potato variations like scalloped potatoes.
Key Ingredients for Scalloped Potatoes:
- Thinly sliced Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
- Butter
- Milk or heavy cream
- Flour (as a thickening agent)
- Garlic, herbs, and seasonings
Defining Cheesy Potatoes
Unlike scalloped potatoes, cheesy potatoes (also known as au gratin potatoes or funeral potatoes) are all about the cheese! The dish includes layers of thinly sliced potatoes combined with a creamy cheese sauce, often using varieties like cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan. The cheese is what gives this dish its signature gooey, rich texture.
If you’re looking for a cheesy version of potato dishes, try our popular Cheesy Potatoes Recipe, which combines the best cheese options for ultimate creaminess and flavor.
Key Ingredients for Cheesy Potatoes:
- Potatoes (sliced thin)
- Cheese (such as cheddar, Gruyère, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
- Cream or milk
- Butter
- Optional toppings: breadcrumbs or crispy bacon for added texture
Key Differences
While both dishes may appear similar at first glance, there are some notable differences ;
- Cheese: The main difference is that scalloped potatoes traditionally do not include cheese, while cheesy potatoes are loaded with cheese as a primary ingredient.
- Sauce: Scalloped potatoes use a basic cream sauce made from milk, flour, and butter. Cheesy potatoes, on the other hand, incorporate cheese into the sauce, giving it a rich, savory flavor.
- Texture: Scalloped potatoes are creamy and smooth, while cheesy potatoes are both creamy and stretchy due to the melted cheese.
- Potato Slice Thickness: Scalloped potatoes often have thicker slices, which results in a heartier texture. In cheesy potatoes, the slices are typically thinner to allow the cheese to coat and melt through each layer.
- Cooking Time: Due to the cheese melting process, cheesy potatoes may take slightly longer to prepare than scalloped potatoes.
Types of Cheese Used in Cheesy Potatoes
The type of cheese used in cheesy potatoes can greatly influence the flavor and texture of the dish. Here are some popular cheese options:
- Cheddar: A sharp, flavorful cheese that melts well and adds depth to the dish.
- Gruyère: Known for its nutty, slightly sweet flavor, Gruyère is perfect for creating a smooth, rich sauce.
- Mozzarella: This cheese provides a stretchy, gooey texture, making it a great addition to cheesy potatoes.
- Parmesan: Often used as a topping for its sharp flavor and crispy finish.
For more tips on selecting the right cheese, check out our guide on Which Cheese is Best for Potatoes here, which offers recommendations for all kinds of cheesy potato dishes.
How to Adapt Scalloped Potatoes to Include Cheese
If you love both scalloped and cheesy potatoes, you can easily adapt a traditional scalloped potato recipe to include cheese. By layering your potatoes with shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Gruyère) and mixing cheese into the cream sauce, you can create a hybrid dish that combines the creaminess of scalloped potatoes with the richness of cheesy potatoes.
For a delicious recipe that adapts scalloped potatoes to include cheese, you can follow our Cheesy Potatoes Recipe.
Nutritional Differences
The addition of cheese in cheesy potatoes makes the dish more calorie-dense and higher in fat compared to scalloped potatoes. If you’re looking for a lighter option, scalloped potatoes might be the better choice since they rely on a simple cream sauce without added cheese.
However, if you want to enjoy cheesy potatoes without the guilt, consider using lower-fat cheese or reducing the amount of cheese you add to the dish. You can also substitute low-fat milk or Greek yogurt in the cream sauce to lower the calorie count.
Best Occasions to Serve Scalloped
Both dishes are versatile and can be served at a variety of events, but they tend to shine in different settings:
- Scalloped Potatoes: A more elegant, lighter side dish perfect for formal dinners or holiday meals where simplicity and flavor are key.
- Cheesy Potatoes: With their rich and indulgent flavor, cheesy potatoes are ideal for comforting family dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts. Their hearty nature makes them a hit at gatherings like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the main difference ?
The main difference lies in the ingredients: scalloped potatoes do not traditionally include cheese, while cheesy potatoes feature a generous amount of cheese in the recipe. - Can scalloped potatoes be made with cheese?
Yes! You can easily add cheese to scalloped potatoes, turning them into a cheesy hybrid dish. Check out our Cheesy Potatoes Recipe for a variation. - Which dish is healthier: scalloped or cheesy potatoes?
Scalloped potatoes are typically lighter because they don’t contain cheese, making them lower in calories and fat. - What’s the best type of cheese to use in cheesy potatoes?
Cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan, and mozzarella are all excellent choices, depending on the flavor profile you prefer.
Conclusion
Both scalloped potatoes and cheesy potatoes are delicious, comforting side dishes that can elevate any meal. Whether you prefer the creamy simplicity of scalloped potatoes or the rich, indulgent flavor of cheesy potatoes, you can’t go wrong with either dish. Try experimenting with both to see which one becomes your new favorite!
For more inspiration, don’t forget to explore our other cheesy recipes like Cheesy Potatoes Recipe and learn more about the perfect cheese for potato dishes.