Creamy Potato Gratin is a luxurious and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With tender layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, garlicky cream sauce topped with melted cheese, this recipe is both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère, cheddar, or Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- Optional: fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish with softened butter.
Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Heat gently over medium heat until warm, but do not let it boil. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes
Place half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the warm cream mixture over the potatoes. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese. Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Gratin
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbling.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Allow the gratin to rest for 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the sauce thicken and set. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use a mandoline slicer for uniformly thin potato slices, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as mixing Gruyère with Parmesan for a bold flavor.
- Avoid overcrowding the dish to ensure all the layers cook through properly.
Conclusion
Creamy Potato Gratin is a timeless side dish that brings rich flavor and elegance to your table. With its silky cream sauce and cheesy golden crust, this gratin is the perfect accompaniment to roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a festive holiday spread. Enjoy the simplicity and decadence of this classic recipe!