As a person with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, finding gluten-free scalloped potatoes can be challenging when shopping for boxed potato side dishes. With so many brands and varieties on the market, it can be difficult to know which ones are safe to eat on a gluten-free diet. Fortunately, there are some good gluten-free options for pre-made scalloped potatoes available at many major grocery stores.
Quick Answer
Some of the most common brands of boxed scalloped potatoes that are labeled gluten-free include:
- Hungry Jack Premium Sliced Potatoes Au Gratin
- Idahoan Buttery Homestyle Mashed Potatoes
- Betty Crocker Scalloped Potatoes
- Simply Potatoes Scalloped Potatoes
- Golden Grill Au Gratin Scalloped Potatoes
Be sure to always double check the label for a “gluten-free” claim before purchasing any pre-made potato products if you are avoiding gluten.
Evaluating Gluten-Free Claims on Packaged Foods
When assessing whether a pre-made food product is gluten-free, here are some tips:
- Look for a “gluten-free” claim printed clearly on the packaging.
- Check the ingredients list for any sources of gluten like wheat, barley, rye, or malt.
- Beware of advisory warnings such as “made in a facility that processes wheat.”
- Reference allergen statements for any mentions of wheat or gluten.
- Research the brand’s reputation and how they handle allergens.
- Contact the manufacturer if you have any doubts.
Any reputable company that produces gluten-free foods should be transparent about their manufacturing processes and give clear gluten-free labeling. When in doubt, seek out brands that are certified gluten-free by organizations like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO).
Overview of Gluten-Free Boxed Scalloped Potatoes
Here is more detail on some of the top gluten-free choices for pre-made scalloped potato products:
Hungry Jack Premium Sliced Potatoes Au Gratin
Hungry Jack’s sliced au gratin potatoes are certified gluten-free. They come in a 13 ounce box containing sliced russet potatoes and a creamy cheese sauce. The potatoes are made with potato starch, parmesan cheese, and real butter for a rich flavor. Hungry Jack uses dedicated gluten-free manufacturing equipment at their facility.
Idahoan Buttery Homestyle Mashed Potatoes
Idahoan Buttery Mashed Potatoes are made with 100% Idaho Russet potatoes, milk, and butter. They are gluten-free certified and contain no MSG or artificial ingredients. The 24 ounce boxes come with real Idaho potato flakes so you just need to add water and microwave. Idahoan facilities are gluten-free certified by GFCO.
Betty Crocker Scalloped Potatoes
Betty Crocker Scalloped Potatoes are certified gluten-free and contain potatoes, milk, cream, and seasonings. They come in a 15 ounce microwavable cup that is ready after heating for 3 minutes. The potatoes have a creamy texture and cheesy flavor. General Mills (the maker of Betty Crocker) tests their products rigorously for gluten and major allergens.
Simply Potatoes Scalloped Potatoes
Simply Potatoes are made by ConAgra with diced russet potatoes, milk, butter, and cheddar cheese. The 14.5 ounce boxes are labeled gluten-free right on the front. They have a nice golden au gratin crust on top. Simply Potatoes does not contain any artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.
Golden Grill Au Gratin Scalloped Potatoes
Golden Grill Au Gratin Scalloped Potatoes are certified gluten-free. The box contains 14 ounces of diced potatoes in a creamy cheddar cheese sauce. To prepare, you just need to bake the potatoes in the oven for about 60 minutes. They have a rich, decadent flavor. Golden Grill products are made in gluten-free facilities.
Checking Labels of Boxed Scalloped Potatoes
When purchasing any type of pre-made potato product like scalloped potatoes, checking the label is a must. Here are some key things to look for on labels:
- Gluten-Free Claim: Look for the words “Gluten-Free” clearly printed on the package. This could be in the title, on the front label, or indicated with a gluten-free symbol.
- Ingredients List: Scan the ingredients list and make sure there are no sources of gluten like wheat, barley, rye or malt.
- Allergen Information: Check the allergen statement or “Contains” list on the back to see if wheat or gluten are mentioned.
- Manufacturing Details: Read about where and how the product was produced. Is it made in a dedicated gluten-free facility?
- Advisory Statements: Be cautious of warnings like “made in a facility that also processes wheat products.”
Contacting the manufacturer directly if you have any concerns is also recommended. Reputable brands should be transparent and able to disclose which products are gluten-free.
Callouts for Potential Gluten-Containing Ingredients
While reading the labels of boxed potatoes, there are certain ingredients that may indicate the presence of gluten. Here are some to watch out for:
- Flour: Added flour can be a source of gluten. Make sure any flour is made from gluten-free grains like rice.
- Starch: Starch can sometimes be derived from wheat. Look for potato starch instead.
- Malt Flavoring: Malt is typically derived from barley and contains gluten.
- Soy Sauce: Many soy sauces contain wheat. Check for gluten-free tamari instead.
- Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein (HVP): HVP can be made from wheat and contain hidden gluten.
- Modified Food Starch: Can be made from wheat unless specifically marked as gluten-free.
If you see any questionable ingredients on a label that could indicate gluten, it’s best to avoid that product or contact the manufacturer to check.
Benefits of Pre-Made Gluten-Free Scalloped Potatoes
There are several advantages to choosing pre-made scalloped potato products that are gluten-free:
- Convenience: Boxed scalloped potatoes are quick and easy to prepare. Just heat and serve.
- Reliability: They are made in controlled environments and rigorously tested for gluten.
- Texture: They have the creamy, tender texture of properly made scalloped potatoes.
- Flavor: Pre-made scalloped potatoes have delicious cheesy, buttery taste.
- No Cross-Contact: Products are made on dedicated gluten-free lines and equipment.
- Portion Control: Individual boxes provide proper serving sizes for meals.
Choosing a trusted brand of gluten-free scalloped potatoes can give you peace of mind at mealtimes. Be sure to always verify the labeling when purchasing any pre-packaged food product.
Common Questions
Are plain potatoes gluten-free?
Yes, potatoes themselves are naturally gluten-free. Plain potatoes including russets, reds, yellows, etc. do not contain gluten. However, many potato products have other ingredients added to them, so it’s still important to check labels of pre-made potato dishes and sides.
What about homemade scalloped potatoes? Are those safe?
Yes, homemade scalloped potatoes made from basic ingredients like potatoes, milk, cheese, and seasonings are safe to eat on a gluten-free diet as long as care is taken to avoid cross-contact. Make sure to use gluten-free flour if called for in a recipe. Use clean cookware and prep areas.
Can scalloped potatoes be frozen?
Cooked scalloped potatoes generally freeze well for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool fully before freezing, and divide into sealed containers or freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Boxed scalloped potatoes can also be frozen as long as they have not been previously prepared. Follow any instructions from the manufacturer.
Do I need to avoid gravy and sauce packets with scalloped potatoes?
Yes, be very cautious of gravy, sauce, or seasoning packets included with potato dishes. These often contain gluten sources like wheat flour. Make sure to only use gluten-free gravy and seasonings with pre-made scalloped potatoes if on a gluten-free diet.
What about scalloped potatoes served in restaurants? How can I check for gluten?
Ask your server or the chef directly about how restaurant scalloped potatoes are prepared, and mention your gluten allergy. Request that they are made without wheat flour and avoid cross-contact. Check that no gluten-containing gravies or sauces are added on top. When in doubt at a restaurant, stick to basic potatoes.
Tips for Preparing Gluten-Free Scalloped Potatoes
Here are some tips for safely handling and cooking gluten-free scalloped potato products:
- Carefully follow the preparation instructions on the box.
- Use clean hands and cooking tools that have not touched gluten.
- Prevent cross-contact by washing hands, work surfaces, pots/pans before and after.
- Use fresh ingredients like gluten-free flour, cream, and cheese if making them from scratch.
- Do not add in any extra gravies, sauces or seasoning mixes unless they are labeled gluten-free.
- Store leftovers in sealed airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Freeze extras in individual serving sizes for quick gluten-free meals later.
With proper precautions taken when buying, storing, and preparing them, scalloped potatoes can be a delicious gluten-free addition to meals.
Nutritional Profile
Here is the basic nutritional profile per 1/2 cup serving of a typical scalloped potato product:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Fat | 5g |
| Carbs | 18g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 320mg |
Scalloped potatoes are high in carbohydrates from the potatoes and low in fiber. The cheese provides a good amount of calcium. They have moderate sodium levels. Overall, they make a filling gluten-free side dish but should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.
Gluten-Free Substitutions
There are several different ways to substitute ingredients to make traditional scalloped potato recipes gluten-free:
- Use potato starch or cornstarch instead of regular wheat flour for thickening.
- Choose gluten-free bread crumbs or certified oats instead of regular bread crumbs.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
- Opt for gluten-free bouillon or broths if called for.
- Make sure any milk or cheese ingredients are gluten-free.
- Check that added seasonings like black pepper do not contain gluten.
With some simple swaps for key ingredients, you can still enjoy tasty gluten-free scalloped potatoes. Focus on recipes that are naturally gluten-free instead of trying to modify recipes with lots of gluten-containing ingredients.
Other Gluten-Free Potato Side Dishes
In addition to scalloped potatoes, here are some other gluten-free potato side dish ideas:
- Mashed potatoes – Use potato flakes, milk, butter, seasoning
- Roasted potatoes – Toss with oil, herbs and roast
- Potato salad – Combine with mayo, mustard, onion, celery
- Hash browns or home fries
- Potato pancakes – Shred and pan fry potatoes
- Potatoes au gratin – Layer sliced potatoes with cheese
- Twice baked potatoes – Scoop out and stuff potato skins
There are endless ways to prepare potatoes that are naturally gluten-free for side dishes. Get creative with different seasonings, mix-ins and cooking methods.
Conclusion
When prepared properly, scalloped potatoes can be a tasty gluten-free addition to any meal. Look for reputable brands that clearly label “gluten-free” on boxed potato products. Carefully read all ingredients labels to evaluate gluten-free claims. Make sure to take precautions against cross-contact when cooking at home as well. With the right choices, you can safely enjoy delicious creamy scalloped potatoes on a gluten-free diet.
