
Creamy Cheese and Potato Gratin – The Ultimate Comfort Food Side Dish
Introduction
If you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting side dish that’s sure to impress, look no further than this Creamy Cheese and Potato Gratin! With layers of tender, thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with melted cheese, this gratin is the epitome of indulgent comfort food. Perfect for holiday dinners, special occasions, or a weeknight treat, this dish will quickly become a favorite. Let’s jump into this easy and delicious 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
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 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. Try to keep the slices even for uniform cooking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Let the sauce 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.
- Start by layering the sliced potatoes in the dish, slightly overlapping each layer.
- Pour about 1/4 of the creamy sauce over the potatoes, then sprinkle with a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat this process, layering the potatoes, sauce, and cheese until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake the Gratin
- Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- After 40 minutes, remove the foil and continue to 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 top, place the gratin under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Once the gratin is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley before serving for a fresh, aromatic finish.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding some cooked bacon or pancetta between the layers for a smoky, salty kick.
- Swap the mozzarella for Gruyère cheese for a nuttier, richer flavor, or use a blend of cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan for a more complex taste.
- You can make this gratin ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just bake it for an additional 10-15 minutes when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
This Creamy Cheese and Potato Gratin is the ultimate comfort food side dish, offering layers of velvety potatoes, a creamy sauce, and rich cheese in every bite. It’s simple to make yet incredibly flavorful, making it the perfect addition to any dinner table. Whether you’re serving it with a hearty roast or enjoying it on its own, this gratin is sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.
Call to Action
Have you made this Creamy Cheese and Potato Gratin? Share your thoughts and any variations you tried in the comments below! For more satisfying and comforting recipes, check out our blog and get inspired to create more delicious meals at home.