Creamy Potato Gratin
Creamy potato gratin features tender sliced potatoes layered with Swiss cheese and rich cream, baked to golden perfection—an indulgent side perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the potatoes, dropping them into a bowl of cold water to cover.
- Slice potatoes into 1/8 to 1/4 inch strips.
- Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Heavily butter a shallow 2 to 3-quart gratin dish or 9 x 13-inch casserole.
- Dry the potatoes well with paper towels.
- Overlap half the potatoes in lengthwise rows in the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle lightly with salt, white pepper, and half the shredded Swiss cheese.
- Repeat with the second layer of potatoes.
- Pour 3/4 cup heavy cream over the top.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F for 40 minutes.
- If serving immediately, continue baking for 20 minutes more, until the top is golden brown and potatoes are tender.
- Gratin may be baked for 40 minutes, then covered and held at room temperature for up to 3 hours.
- Pour 1/4 cup heavy cream over the top and return to oven for 20 minutes, uncovered.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary between the layers of potatoes. If Swiss cheese isn't available, Gruyère or a blend of sharp cheddar can be great substitutes. To ensure even cooking, try to slice the potatoes consistently. Using a mandoline can help achieve uniform thickness.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy potato gratin makes an excellent side dish for roasted meats or a vegetarian main when paired with a crisp salad. It pairs beautifully with Caramelized Phyllo Key Lime Natilla for dessert. For a complete meal, consider serving with steamed green beans or a simple arugula salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover potato gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. For a crispy top, uncover during the last 5-10 minutes. Avoid freezing, as the texture can become mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Potato Gratin contains roughly 493 calories, with 7g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (37% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1173mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the gratin in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the gratin a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the cream before baking. If it’s chilled, you may need to extend the baking time by 10-15 minutes.
What is the best type of potatoes to use?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best for gratins as they become tender and creamy when baked. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they won't yield the same texture.
Can I add vegetables to the gratin?
Absolutely! Sautéed onions, mushrooms, or spinach can be layered in for added flavor and nutrition. Just ensure that any added vegetables are cooked beforehand to prevent excess moisture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).