Delicious Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes Gluten Free Recipe

We’ve all been there at least once: family’s coming, someone’s got a dietary need, and you realize you want comfort food without the whole gluten situation. Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes Gluten Free Recipe has saved my tail more than once. It’s got that soft, creamy potato goodness—plus apples. Skeptical? I was too, until I tried it. (Now I stand by this dish at every holiday like it’s my own personal better-than-pie secret.) While we’re at it, if you need more warm, crowd-pleasing gluten free sides, check out my go-to easy gluten-free crepes recipe or that never-fails gluten-free taco casserole easy-taco-casserole-recipe. Let’s get rolling on what the heck makes this recipe special, and why you’ll probably end up hiding leftovers for yourself.

What is Au Gratin style potatoes?

Okay. Au gratin potatoes. Sounds fancy, doesn’t it? But really it’s rustic as all get-out. Basically, it means sliced potatoes baked with something creamy and finished with a golden, bubbly top. Some folks just throw cheese on lasagna and call it “au gratin” but the real deal needs that melty finish—crusty edges are key. I always remember my aunt saying, “Don’t trust a gratin with a pale top!” She was right.

The dish itself dates way back, French countryside stuff, no frills. Usually, it needs cheese, heavy cream (which you can switch for non-dairy if you like), and thin-sliced potatoes. But when you toss apples in, like in Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes Gluten Free Recipe, you’re making it sweet, salty, and somehow classic-yet-new. And honestly, it’s the only veggie dish I’ve met that gets a round of applause at potlucks.

 

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Potatoes (Yukon Gold)	2 lbs	Best for creamy texture and holds shape
Apples (Granny Smith)	1-2	Adds sweetness and keeps its form
Gruyère Cheese	1 cup	Creamy and nutty flavor
Heavy Cream (or non-dairy alternative)	1 cup	Richness for the sauce
Butter	2 tbsp	For greasing and flavor

What is the Difference between Gratin, Dauphinoise and scalloped potatoes?

Oh, my grandma would roll her eyes at this debate. But foodies get worked up over these potato differences! Here’s the scoop: “Gratin” is your basic creamy potato bake with cheese bubbling on top. “Dauphinoise” comes straight from south France and traditionally skips the cheese—just potatoes and cream, with, okay, maybe a hint of garlic. (It’s rich, but won’t win a cheese-pull contest.)

Scalloped potatoes, like the ones in Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes Gluten Free Recipe, are usually made with a creamy sauce, usually cut thicker, and often without cheese—but hey, modern versions break the rules (mine sure does). Personally, I say they’re all delicious and everyone argues over details when the real question is do you want seconds or not?

“I grew up with scalloped potatoes but never thought to add apples. This gluten free version honestly shocked me, in a good way. Even my picky teen loved it!”
— Jamie H., Vermont

 

Best potatoes to use for Potato Au Gratin

Let’s talk spuds. Not every potato fits the bill for au gratin style. Russets are everywhere and go soft and creamy when baked, but Yukon Golds? Now we’re talking. They keep their shape, go buttery, and sing in this recipe (well, maybe not sing, but they work magic). Don’t even think about red potatoes here—they get weird in the oven. Trust me. Once, I made it with reds in a pinch and the texture went sideways.

Slice your potatoes thin (aim for the width of a thick coin) for even cooking. If you have a food processor or a mandoline, now’s your time to shine. If not, grab a sharp knife and be prepared for a little patience and maybe an arm workout. It’s worth it for the creamy inside and little golden bits on top.

Best cheese for Potato Apple Gratin

Let’s get cheesy. Cheese is the not-so-secret hero. Classic potato gratin calls for Gruyère—for that nutty, slightly salty edge, and it melts in the most delightful way. If you can’t get Gruyère (or you’re hunting through a ransacked fridge), sharp white cheddar or even Swiss makes a dreamy stand-in. Tossing in a bit of Parmesan? Also a good call for an extra punch.

Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes Gluten Free Recipe relies on that rich, gooey cheese blanket pulling apples and potatoes together. If you need dairy-free, there are some solid melts-like-the-real-thing options at most supermarkets now (surprised me, honestly). My cousin is dairy-free and even she licked the pan clean.

What do I serve with Potato Apple Gratin?

This is the million-dollar question, right? I’ve tried a hundred combos over the years. Here are my top picks:

• Roast chicken (classic, never lets you down)
• Glazed ham (perfect salty-sweet combo)
• Crisp green salad or any light veggie side
• Oh, and leftovers make a killer lunch with a big spoonful of tangy chutney on top

You can also round out your meal with fresh baked gluten free bread—my fave is this no-knead gluten-free bread amazing recipe. Still hungry? Throw in a little something sweet like these apple pie cookies delicious easy recipe for the real Granny’s house vibe. Basically: anything you like with comfort food will shine beside this gratin.

Common Questions

Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Nope! If the skins are thin (Yukon Golds are great for this), just wash well and slice. Saves you time—plus, extra fiber for the win.

What kind of apples should I use?
Go for firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape while baking and add a little zing.

Can I make this recipe ahead?
Absolutely. Prep the dish, cover, and chill in the fridge up to a day before baking. Let it come to room temp for about 30 minutes before you pop it in the oven.

Is there a way to make it dairy-free?
Yep, use your favorite dairy-free cheese shreds and swap in a plant-based cream. It reheats well, too.

Can kids help with this recipe?
Of course! Let them help layer the potatoes and apples, sprinkle on cheese, maybe sneak a slice or two (my kid always does). Just keep them away from the hot oven.

Ready to Try the Sweet-Savory Magic?

So there you have it—Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes Gluten Free Recipe answers the call for rich, rustic comfort (with a twist) whether you’re gluten-free or just hungry for something different. The juicy pops of apple and bubbling cheese make it unforgettable. Still got potato cravings? Take a peek at these classics on Punchfork’s Granny’s Apple Scalloped Potatoes or compare recipes with Taste of Home’s excellent how to make it breakdown. For spin-offs, Claudia’s Table has a hearty potato apple gratin and if apples are your thing, gluten-free dessert fans must try Mama Knows Gluten Free’s apple pie blondies or Living Well Mom’s healthy apple crisp. Bake this dish tonight—bet it’ll become your new comfort food secret.

 

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