Creamy Potato Gratin

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🥔 Creamy Potato Gratin

Description

Creamy Potato Gratin is a classic comfort dish made with thinly sliced potatoes baked slowly in a rich, garlicky cream sauce and topped with melted cheese. The result is tender potatoes layered in a luxuriously creamy base with a golden, slightly crisp top. Perfect as a side dish for holidays, dinner parties, or cozy family meals.

🍽️ Servings

Serves: 6 people
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60–70 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes

🧾 Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (900 g) potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)

  • 2 cups heavy cream

  • 1 cup whole milk

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1½ cups grated cheese (Gruyère, Cheddar, or a mix)

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for greasing + topping)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)

  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven
    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a baking dish.

  2. Prepare Potatoes
    Peel (optional) and slice potatoes thinly (⅛ inch thick). A mandoline works best.

  3. Make Cream Sauce
    In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cream, milk, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Warm gently—do not boil.

  4. Layer the Gratin
    Arrange a layer of potatoes in the dish, pour some cream mixture over them, and sprinkle cheese. Repeat layers until finished.

  5. Top & Bake
    Dot with butter, cover with foil, and bake for 45 minutes.

  6. Golden Finish
    Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling.

  7. Rest & Serve
    Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish if desired.

📝 Notes

  • Yukon Gold potatoes provide the creamiest texture.

  • Gruyère adds a nutty, classic flavor.

  • Letting the gratin rest helps it set and slice cleanly.

  • Sauce thickens as it cools.

⭐ Tips for Best Results

  • Slice potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.

  • Warm the cream mixture first to ensure even baking.

  • Cover early to prevent burning; uncover later for browning.

  • For extra richness, add a small layer of Parmesan on top.

🥗 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 380 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 30 g

  • Protein: 10 g

  • Fat: 25 g

  • Saturated Fat: 15 g

  • Fiber: 3 g

  • Calcium: 220 mg

  • Sodium: 420 mg

💪 Health Benefits

  • Potatoes: Provide potassium, vitamin C, and energy-boosting carbs.

  • Dairy: Rich in calcium and protein for bone health.

  • Garlic: Supports immunity and heart health.

  • Comfort Food: Promotes satiety and emotional satisfaction when enjoyed in moderation.

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make potato gratin ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: Yes, but the texture will be lighter and less rich.

Q: Is this the same as scalloped potatoes?
A: Similar, but gratin includes cheese, while scalloped potatoes traditionally do not.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes—this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Q: Can I add vegetables or protein?
A: Absolutely! Onions, mushrooms, spinach, or cooked bacon work well.

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