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: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated cheese (Gruyère or Cheddar); 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Savor the comforting layers of creamy potato gratin, topped with a golden, cheesy crust. This dish is the epitome of indulgence, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T19:01:51.154Z

This creamy potato gratin is a family favorite that has been passed down for generations. With layers of thinly sliced potatoes smothered in a rich cream sauce and topped with a crispy cheese crust, it's a dish that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent layers of creamy potatoes
Golden, crispy cheese crust that adds texture
Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners

      

A Perfect Comfort Food

There's something undeniably comforting about a creamy potato gratin. This dish combines the simplicity of potatoes with the richness of cream, creating a warm embrace for your taste buds. Whether you're serving it as a side or as a main dish, the creamy layers meld together beautifully, making it a favorite among family and friends during gatherings.

The layers of thinly sliced potatoes soak up the flavors of garlic and thyme, enhancing the overall taste. Each bite promises a delightful combination of creaminess and herbaceous notes, making it a well-rounded dish that complements a variety of meats and salads.

The Golden Cheese Crust

One of the standout features of this potato gratin is its golden, crispy cheese crust. As the gratin bakes, the cheese melts and transforms into a crunchy layer that contrasts perfectly with the soft potatoes underneath. This textural difference is what elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Using high-quality cheese like Gruyère or Cheddar not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the gratin's luxurious feel. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible, making it hard to wait until it’s served.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this creamy potato gratin is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as spinach, leeks, or even mushrooms, which can add both flavor and nutrition to the dish. Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties to suit your taste.

This dish is not only perfect for holiday feasts but also works wonderfully for a cozy weeknight dinner. Pair it with a light salad or your favorite protein for a complete meal that satisfies and delights.

Ingredients

For the Gratin

4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated cheese (Gruyère or Cheddar)
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
2 tablespoons butter, for greasing

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.

Layer the Potatoes

Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and half of the minced garlic.

Add Cream and Cheese

Pour half of the heavy cream over the potatoes and sprinkle with half of the cheese and thyme. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, cream, cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Bake the Gratin

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Serve

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

Tips for Perfecting Your Gratin

To achieve the best results, make sure to slice your potatoes evenly using a mandoline for consistent cooking. This ensures that every layer cooks at the same rate, resulting in a perfectly tender gratin throughout.

For an extra touch of flavor, consider infusing the heavy cream with herbs or spices before layering it with the potatoes. A hint of nutmeg or a bay leaf can add depth to the dish, making it even more delicious.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is simple; just place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps maintain its creamy texture and crispy top.

For those who want to prepare ahead, you can assemble the gratin a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time, ensuring a hot and bubbly dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute with cheeses like Fontina or Parmesan for different flavors.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the gratin a few hours ahead of time and bake it just before serving.

→ What can I serve with potato gratin?

It pairs well with roasted meats, salads, or even as a standalone vegetarian dish.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour or gluten-based ingredients.