Cheesy Potato Gratin Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of tender potatoes, rich cream, and melted cheese baked to golden perfection. Creamy Cheesy Potato Gratin is a timeless comfort dish that brings warmth to any table, whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner. Its layers of thinly sliced potatoes bathed in a velvety, cheesy sauce make it irresistible for all ages. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make with just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients

For this indulgent potato gratin, you’ll need:

• 4 large starchy potatoes (Russets or Yukon Golds), peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 ½ cups (150g) grated Gruyère cheese (or a mix of Gruyère and cheddar)
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons (30g) butter, softened for greasing the dish
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

• Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly (about ⅛ inch thick) using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. Uniform slices are essential to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Infuse the Cream

• In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the heavy cream with the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Let it heat gently until fragrant (do not boil). This step enhances the flavor of the sauce.

Step 3: Assemble the Gratin

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish with softened butter.
2. Arrange a layer of potato slices on the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping.
3. Sprinkle a portion of the grated cheese over the potatoes.
4. Repeat the process, layering potatoes and cheese until all the ingredients are used, ending with a generous cheese layer on top.

Step 4: Add the Cream Mixture

• Pour the warm cream mixture evenly over the layered potatoes. Use the back of a spoon to press the potatoes slightly, ensuring the cream is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling. Insert a knife into the center to check if the potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

• Allow the gratin to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.

Creamy Cheesy Potato Gratin is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even a fresh green salad. It’s an ideal choice for special occasions or whenever you crave a hearty, satisfying side. The combination of rich cheese, smooth cream, and perfectly cooked potatoes makes this gratin a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is simple enough to master and will quickly become a household favorite.

Serve it warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an elegant touch. Enjoy this delicious creation that celebrates the beauty of simplicity in every bite.