A guide to au gratin cooking

What is au gratin?

Au gratin refers to any dish finished with a topping of cheese or buttered breadcrumbs and cooked in the oven or under the broiler until it develops a golden, crispy crust. The term au gratin describes foods prepared using this technique.

The history of au gratin cooking

Au gratin comes from the French word gratter, meaning “to scrape.” It originally described the browned crust that clung to the pot, which was scraped off and enjoyed as a delicacy—before evolving into the golden, cheesy dish we know today.

Why potatoes au gratin is so popular

Potatoes au gratin are loved for their rich, creamy layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked with cheese until golden and bubbling. Their comforting flavor, easy prep and make-ahead versatility often make them a favorite dish for both weeknights and holidays.

What’s the difference between au gratin and scalloped potatoes?

The main difference is often cheese. Au gratin potatoes include cheese layered between or on top of the potatoes, while scalloped potatoes are traditionally baked in a creamy sauce without cheese. And au gratin potatoes tend to have a crunchy crust on top, usually consisting of breadcrumbs and cheese.

You might choose potatoes au gratin for their cheesy layers and crisp breadcrumb topping when you want to serve a rich and indulgent dish. Scalloped potatoes, with thicker slices and a creamier texture, are ideal when you prefer a less crunchy texture.

The main ingredients for au gratin potatoes

When making au gratin potatoes, there are four main ingredients to focus on: potatoes, cheese, cream and breadcrumbs.

• Potatoes: Try choosing waxy varieties like Yukon Gold, which may hold their shape during baking better than starchier types of potatoes.
  

• Cheese: A good melting cheese such as Gruyère adds nutty flavor and a smooth texture; alternatives like sharp cheddar also work.
  

• Cream: Use heavy cream, or a mix of cream and milk for a lighter outcome.
• Breadcrumbs: These are generally sprinkled on top of the cheese during the last three to five minutes of baking.

Other common flavor-boosters include garlic and a touch of nutmeg for depth.

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Get crunchy au gratin crusts and browned cheese toppings by using the broil setting on a Whirlpool^® range. Select models, such as this Whirlpool^® 30-inch Electric Range with No Preheat Mode, feature the Broil setting, which can be used to make crispy-melty nachos, juicy-seared meat, toasty grilled cheese and more. Other Whirlpool^® ranges, such as this gas model, offer 6 Cooking Modes, so you can take your favorite meals from fresh, fridge or freezer to fabulous with No Preheat Air Fry Mode, Air Baking, No Preheat Mode, Bake, Broil, and Keep Warm.

Other au gratin dishes

While potatoes are the most classic version, the au gratin technique can elevate a wide range of ingredients. Many vegetables—and even some pastas—can take on a creamy interior and crisp, golden top. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Cauliflower au gratin: Tender cauliflower can make for a low-carb twist on the traditional potato dish.

• Ham and vegetable au gratin: Incorporate a protein, such as ham, into your recipe to round out your meal.

• Macaroni au gratin: Not your ordinary mac ‘n’ cheese, this version features a breadcrumb topping.

Tips for delicious au gratin

Cooking an au gratin dish means paying attention to a few key details around equipment, preparation and baking. Here are tips to help you bake a creamy, evenly cooked, golden-topped gratin:

• Preheat to the right oven temperature. Follow your specific recipe to achieve the proper temperatures for your au gratin dish.

• Position your rack properly and choose the right baking dish. Sometimes, a shallow baking dish works well with au gratin recipes. Your recipe should tell you.

• Slice potatoes to uniform thickness. Thin, even slices (around 1/8-inch) often work well with au gratin dishes. 

• Cook and let it rest. Let the gratin sit 5-10 minutes after baking so it sets before serving.

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Baking an au gratin dish in a Whirlpool^® Wall Oven can help you bring a delicious meal to the table for your family. Select Whirlpool^®  Wall Ovens such as this combo model, feature Rapid Preheat, so you save time with faster preheating.¹ Other models, such as this Whirlpool^® Wall Oven, feature the Keep Warm^™ Setting, so you can keep hot food hot without having to keep cooking.