Creamy Potato Gratin with Cheese Crust

Name: Creamy Potato Gratin with Cheese Crust
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs potatoes, thinly sliced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Oven-Baked Delights

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Potato Gratin with Cheese Crust. Perfectly layered potatoes baked in a rich, creamy sauce, topped with a golden cheese crust that will delight your taste buds.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2025-12-04T23:01:51.260Z

This Creamy Potato Gratin is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With layers of thinly sliced potatoes, a rich cream sauce, and a crispy cheese topping, it's the perfect side dish for any occasion.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that satisfies every craving
Golden cheese crust that adds a delightful crunch
Easily customizable with your favorite herbs and spices

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

Creamy Potato Gratin with Cheese Crust is the epitome of comfort food. It's a dish that warms the heart and soul, making it perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or simply a cozy night in. The combination of creamy layers and a cheesy top makes it irresistible. Each bite melts in your mouth, delivering a satisfying experience that transcends ordinary side dishes.

Not only does this gratin serve as a delightful accompaniment to meats and salads, but it can also stand alone as a hearty main dish. The richness of the heavy cream combined with the sharpness of the cheeses creates a flavor profile that is both indulgent and comforting. It's a dish that invites seconds and even thirds!

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of this creamy potato gratin is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences. For a hint of sweetness, consider adding caramelized onions or sautéed leeks. If you prefer a bit of spice, a sprinkle of cayenne or paprika can elevate the flavors beautifully.

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese as well. While Gruyère and Parmesan create a classic flavor combination, you could also try cheddar for a sharper taste or mozzarella for a gooey texture. Adding fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano can also enhance the overall aroma and taste, making your gratin truly unique.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Creamy Potato Gratin, presentation matters. Consider garnishing the dish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness. For a complete meal, pair the gratin with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the dish.

This gratin also pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, such as chicken or beef, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table or family dinner. The creamy texture complements the savory flavors of the meat, creating a well-rounded dining experience that will leave everyone satisfied.

Ingredients

For the Gratin

2 lbs potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the dish.

Add Cream and Cheese

In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme. Pour half of this mixture over the first layer of potatoes. Sprinkle half of the Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses on top.

Layer Remaining Ingredients

Add the remaining potato slices on top, then pour the rest of the cream mixture over them. Top with the remaining cheeses.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy potato gratin with a cheese crust!

Tips for Perfecting Your Gratin

To ensure that your potato gratin turns out perfectly every time, make sure to slice your potatoes uniformly. This helps them cook evenly and achieve that desired creamy texture. A mandoline slicer can be a great tool for achieving consistent thickness, usually about 1/8 inch.

Don’t skip the resting time after baking! Letting your gratin cool for a few minutes allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve. This resting time also enhances the flavors, as the ingredients meld together beautifully.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing them is simple. Allow the gratin to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it before baking; wrap it tightly and it can last for up to 2 months.

When reheating, cover the gratin with foil to prevent the cheese from burning. Bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quick reheat, although the oven will give you a better texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this gratin ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gratin a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you are ready to serve.

→ What type of potatoes are best for gratin?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for gratin as they hold their shape and have a creamy texture.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use lower-fat cheese options to reduce calories.