Every now and then, we all crave something rich, creamy, and utterly comforting. This creamy potato gratin is your ticket to bliss, with layers of tender potatoes swimming in a luxurious cream sauce, topped with a golden, cheesy crust. It’s the side dish that steals the show!
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of heavy cream and whole milk creates a sauce that’s rich but not overly heavy.
- Layering the potatoes ensures every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
- A slow bake allows the potatoes to absorb the creamy goodness while developing a crispy top.
- Gruyère cheese adds a nutty depth that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary.
- It’s versatile enough to pair with almost any main course, from roast chicken to beef tenderloin.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mandoline slicer or sharp knife
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats, grease your baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures your gratin doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Tip: For extra flavor, rub the dish with a cut garlic clove before greasing.
Create the Cream Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Warm over medium heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This step infuses the cream with garlic and spices, creating a flavorful base for your potatoes.
Layer the Potatoes
Arrange a third of the potato slices in the bottom of the prepared dish, overlapping slightly. Pour a third of the cream mixture over the potatoes, then sprinkle with a third of the cheese. Repeat the layers twice more, ending with cheese on top. Tip: For even cooking, try to keep the potato layers uniform in thickness.
Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The uncovered baking time is crucial for achieving that irresistible crispy top.
Let It Rest
Allow the gratin to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This lets the sauce thicken slightly, making it easier to serve. Tip: For a extra crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Tips and Tricks
For the best results, use a mandoline slicer to get uniformly thin potato slices. This ensures even cooking. If you’re short on time, you can parboil the potato slices for 3-4 minutes before layering, reducing the baking time. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, but note the sauce will be less rich. Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or fontina for a new flavor profile. Lastly, for added texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the top before the final bake.
Recipe Variations
- Add thinly sliced onions or leeks between the potato layers for a sweet, aromatic twist.
- Incorporate cooked, crumbled bacon or pancetta for a smoky, savory note.
- Swap out the Gruyère for blue cheese for a bold, tangy flavor.
- Mix in some thinly sliced sweet potatoes for a colorful, slightly sweet variation.
- For a vegetarian version, ensure all cheeses used are vegetarian-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the gratin up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
What’s the best potato for gratin? Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, but Russets can also be used for a firmer bite.
Can I freeze potato gratin? While possible, freezing can affect the texture of the potatoes and sauce. If you do freeze it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Summary
This creamy potato gratin is a decadent, comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich cream sauce, tender potatoes, and crispy cheese topping, it’s sure to be a hit. Follow our tips and variations to make it your own!
