
Ultimate Cheesy Potato Gratin – A Decadent Side Dish for Any Occasion
Introduction
Looking for the ultimate comfort food? This Ultimate Cheesy Potato Gratin is just what you need! With its layers of perfectly tender potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce, this gratin is rich, indulgent, and the perfect side dish for any meal. Whether it’s a festive holiday gathering or a simple family dinner, this gratin is sure to steal the spotlight. Let’s get started with this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
For the Potato Gratin:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer to ensure even thickness. Set them aside in a bowl of water to prevent browning.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped onion (if using) and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
- Stir in the heavy cream and milk, bringing it to a simmer.
- Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Gratin
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Layer the thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping each slice.
- Pour about 1/4 of the creamy sauce over the potatoes, followed by a layer of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layers, continuing with potatoes, sauce, and cheese, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake the Gratin
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- For a crispier, golden top, broil the gratin for an extra 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Once the gratin is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped thyme, rosemary, or parsley for added flavor and color before serving.
Pro Tips
- For an extra creamy gratin, mix a bit of cream cheese into the sauce before baking.
- Try adding cooked bacon or pancetta between the layers of potatoes for a smoky, savory twist.
- To make ahead, assemble the gratin a day in advance, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
This Ultimate Cheesy Potato Gratin is a rich, indulgent side dish that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. The creamy sauce, melted cheese, and tender potatoes come together to create the perfect comfort food. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a weeknight meal, this gratin is guaranteed to be a hit.
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Tried this Ultimate Cheesy Potato Gratin recipe? Let us know how it turned out and if you made any fun twists in the comments below! For more delicious and comforting recipes, check out our blog and find more meal inspiration for every occasion.