Potato Gratin Recipe

If you’re a fan of melt-in-your-mouth, golden-topped comfort food, you’re in for a treat! Potato Gratin is a classic French dish that transforms humble potatoes into a showstopping side, with layers of tender slices bathed in rich cream and topped with bubbling, savory cheese. Every bite offers that irresistible blend of creamy interior and crispy edges. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating the holidays, or just want a cozy addition to your weekly menu, this Potato Gratin will absolutely steal the spotlight at any table.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Potato Gratin comes together with everyday staples, but each ingredient plays a vital role in building deep flavor, perfect texture, and a picture-worthy dish. Here’s what you’ll need and why you shouldn’t skip a single one!

• Yukon gold or russet potatoes (2 lbs, peeled & thinly sliced): Choose firm, starchy potatoes for the silkiest layers and perfect cook-through.
• Heavy cream (2 cups): This is the secret to the luscious, melt-in-your-mouth sauce.
• Whole milk (1 cup): Lightens the sauce just enough to keep the gratin creamy but not heavy.
• Garlic cloves, minced (2): Adds aromatic depth—don’t skimp on the fresh garlic.
• Salt (1 tsp): Brings out all the other flavors for a well-balanced bite.
• Black pepper (½ tsp): Lends just a touch of warmth and complexity.
• Ground nutmeg (½ tsp, optional): Classically French, nutmeg provides subtle warmth and that “something special.”
• Gruyère or sharp cheddar cheese, grated (1½ cups): The golden, bubbly topping that makes this dish unforgettable.
• Unsalted butter (2 tbsp, cut into pieces): Dotted on top for extra richness and a glossy, bronzed finish.
• Fresh thyme or chopped parsley (optional): Just a sprinkle brightens up the look and adds a pop of fresh flavor.

How to Make Potato Gratin

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C), which is the sweet spot for bubbling cheese and silky potatoes. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this prevents sticking and helps the edges crisp up perfectly.

Step 2: Warm the Cream Mixture

In a medium saucepan over gentle heat, combine your heavy cream, whole milk, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Warm just until everything is blended and aromatic, but don’t let it boil. This infuses all those lovely flavors together and ensures even cooking.

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes and Cream

Lay half of your thinly sliced potatoes across the bottom of your dish in overlapping rows. Pour over half of the warm cream mixture, making sure every slice gets a little love. Sprinkle with half the grated cheese, letting it settle between the layers for ultimate cheesiness.

Step 4: Repeat and Finish the Layers

Add the rest of the potatoes, followed by the remaining cream mixture and cheese. Press down gently—the potatoes will cook down quite a bit. Dot the top with your butter pieces for that fabulous golden finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes, which steams the potatoes tender. Uncover and bake another 20 to 25 minutes until irresistibly golden and bubbling. Give it at least 10 minutes to rest before digging in; this helps the sauce thicken and makes serving neat slices a breeze.

How to Serve Potato Gratin

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh thyme or chopped parsley right before serving adds a burst of color and garden-fresh aroma to your Potato Gratin. For extra flair, try thin slices of chive or even crispy fried onions.

Side Dishes

Potato Gratin is beautifully rich, so it pairs well with lighter mains like roast chicken or a crisp, tangy green salad. For a French-inspired spread, serve alongside herby roast beef, salmon, or buttery green beans.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the family-style casserole! Try cutting your Potato Gratin into neat squares and stacking them, or serve individual portions in ramekins for an elegant touch. A drizzle of truffle oil or a handful of sautéed mushrooms can really turn this classic into a chef’s delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Potato Gratin keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so that second-day slice may be even more delicious!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze Potato Gratin! Cool it fully, wrap well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The texture might be slightly softer but still wonderfully tasty.

Reheating

To restore that just-baked magic, reheat Potato Gratin in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered loosely with foil until warmed through (about 20 minutes), then uncover for 5–10 minutes to crisp the top. Individual slices can also be warmed in the microwave for super quick comfort food.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of cheese for Potato Gratin?

Absolutely! Gruyère and cheddar are classics, but you can swap in Swiss, fontina, or even a blend of cheeses for new flavors. Just be sure it’s a good melting cheese for that signature creamy topping.

How thin should I slice the potatoes?

Thinner is better! Aim for slices around 1/8 inch thick. A mandoline makes this quick and easy, but a sharp knife and steady hand will work just fine. Even slices cook evenly and keep every bite tender.

Can Potato Gratin be made ahead?

Definitely! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and bake it fresh, or fully bake it, then reheat. Just add a splash of cream before reheating if it seems a little dry, and cover with foil to retain moisture.

What’s the difference between Potato Gratin and scalloped potatoes?

While similar, Potato Gratin traditionally includes both cheese and cream throughout, creating a richer, more luxurious texture. Scalloped potatoes are usually just baked in milk or cream, often with less cheese or only a sprinkling on top.

Can I add other ingredients like bacon or onions?

Absolutely! Sautéed onions, leeks, or bits of crispy bacon make tasty additions placed between the layers. Just be sure they’re cooked and well-drained so you don’t add excess moisture to the dish.

Final Thoughts

There you have it: the ultimate Potato Gratin that’s impossible to resist! Whether you’re making it for a cozy family meal or pulling out all the stops for guests, this creamy, cheesy bake is always a crowd-pleaser. Don’t be surprised if your Potato Gratin disappears before you get seconds—enjoy every bite!

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