Potato Gratin
Creamy potato gratin features tender sliced potatoes layered with sharp cheeses and flavorful broth, perfect for comforting family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 clove garlic ⓘ
- vegetable cooking spray
- 1 cup chopped onion ⓘ
- 6 medium-sized baking potatoes ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper ⓘ
- 3/4 cup shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 1/4 cup grated fresh Romano cheese ⓘ
- 1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup evaporated skimmed milk ⓘ
Instructions
- Rub a shallow 3-quart baking dish with the cut sides of garlic halves; discard garlic.
- Coat the dish with vegetable cooking spray.
- Arrange the peeled and sliced potatoes in the prepared dish.
- Sprinkle chopped onion evenly over the potatoes.
- Pour low-sodium chicken broth and evaporated skimmed milk over the layered potatoes and onions.
- Season with salt and freshly ground pepper.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese and grated Romano cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let stand for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a layer of sour cream or a sprinkle of nutmeg to the potatoes. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the evaporated skimmed milk with unsweetened almond milk. Ensure your potato slices are uniform for even cooking, and try using Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery flavor. You can also explore different cheese combinations to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Potato Gratin pairs beautifully with Mrs. Johnson'S Chicken or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a light protein like grilled fish for a delightful dinner. For a hearty brunch option, consider serving it with poached eggs or alongside Venezuelan Potato Salad for a unique twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but the oven will help maintain the creamy texture and golden topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato Gratin contains roughly 483 calories, with 14g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value) and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1944mg per serving (85% 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 use a different type of cheese in this gratin?
Absolutely! While extra-sharp Cheddar and Romano provide a great flavor, you can substitute with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a vegan cheese alternative for a different taste. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will melt differently, so adjust your baking time as needed.
How do I know when the potatoes are done cooking?
The potatoes are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Baking times may vary based on the thickness of your potato slices, so check for doneness around 45 minutes. If they need more time, continue baking until they are soft and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the gratin a day in advance. Simply assemble it up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).