Description
Looking for the ultimate comfort dish that’s rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy? Traditional Potato Gratin is a classic French-inspired side dish that layers tender slices of starchy potatoes in a velvety garlic-infused cream sauce, topped with bubbling melted cheese. It’s the perfect make-ahead recipe for dinner ideas, elegant holiday sides, or a cozy weekend treat. Whether you’re looking for an easy recipe to impress guests or a hearty option to elevate your usual meal rotation, this gratin brings both flavor and elegance to the table. Ideal for fans of quick breakfast casseroles or indulgent dinner ideas!
Ingredients
2 ½ pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3 cloves garlic, minced or smashed
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
1 ½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan, combine cream, milk, garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer gently for 5 minutes to infuse. Remove from heat.
3. Slice potatoes into 1/8-inch thick rounds using a mandoline or sharp knife.
4. Layer one-third of the potatoes in the dish. Pour over one-third of the cream and sprinkle with cheese. Repeat layers twice more.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Then uncover and bake for another 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
6. Let the gratin rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Always use starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russets for a creamy interior.
Simmering the cream with garlic and herbs ensures the flavors permeate each bite.
Resting the gratin before serving allows it to firm up and slice cleanly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 410
- Fat: 25
- Saturated Fat: 15
- Unsaturated Fat: 9
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 33
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 9
- Cholesterol: 85