Savory Potato Gratin

Prep: 15 min Cook: 50 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: French

A creamy, savory potato gratin layered with onions, garlic, and herbs, baked to golden perfection—ideal for comforting dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 4 to 5 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
  • 3 to 4 medium onions, peeled and sliced
  • 2 Tbsp. butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced and pressed
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • dash of black pepper
  • dash of nutmeg
  • 1 tsp. dried thyme leaves
  • 1/2 cup whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Saute onions in butter in a large skillet until soft and transparent.
  2. In a shallow baking dish, arrange layers of peeled and sliced potatoes and onions, sprinkling with garlic and seasoning in between layers.
  3. Bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes.
  4. Pour whipped cream all over the top of the layered potatoes.
  5. Sprinkle with paprika, if desired.
  6. Increase oven temperature to 400°F and bake for an additional 10 to 20 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender and slightly browned on top.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier gratin, consider adding a layer of cheese between the potatoes and onions. Gruyère or cheddar works well. If you're short on time, pre-cooked or frozen potatoes can be substituted. Fresh herbs can enhance flavor, so feel free to swap the dried thyme for fresh if available. Keep an eye on the baking time to prevent over-browning.

Serving Suggestions

Savory Potato Gratin makes a hearty side dish, perfect alongside roasted meats or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with German Raw Apple Cake for a comforting meal. Consider serving with steamed green vegetables or a tangy coleslaw for added texture and flavor. Enjoy it as a centerpiece for family gatherings or as part of a festive holiday menu.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the gratin in an oven set to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. For a crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Savory Potato Gratin contains roughly 708 calories, with 16g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (95% of the Daily Value), potassium (60% of the Daily Value), and iron (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1783mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).

708 kcal 35% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 15.7g 31% DV
Total Fat 25.4g 33% DV
Carbs 119.5g 43% DV
Fiber 26.6g 95% DV
Sugar 1.3g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1783.2mg 78% DV
Potassium 2818.9mg 60% DV
Cholesterol 3.8mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 69.1mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 37.7mg 42% DV
Calcium 388.4mg 30% DV
Iron 10.3mg 57% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk

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 make this gratin ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gratin a day in advance. Assemble the layers, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, as it will be cold. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

What type of potatoes are best for gratin?

Starchy potatoes, such as Russets, are ideal for a creamy texture, while Yukon Golds provide a buttery flavor. Avoid waxy potatoes as they won’t soften as much during baking. A mix of types can also add depth to the dish.

Can I add other vegetables to the gratin?

Absolutely! You can incorporate vegetables like thinly sliced carrots, zucchini, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just ensure that they are sliced thinly so they cook evenly with the potatoes.

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).

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