Imagine a dish so creamy, so decadently cheesy, that it transforms an ordinary meal into a culinary masterpiece. This French-inspired Cheesy Scalloped Potato Gratin is not just a side dish—it's a showstopper that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds. With layers of thinly sliced potatoes bathed in rich cream and blanketed with melted cheese, this gratin is the ultimate comfort food that promises to elevate your dining experience from ordinary to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Gruyère)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Wash and peel the potatoes. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the potatoes very thinly (about 1/8 inch thick) to ensure even cooking and a uniform texture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture together to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Layer the potato slices in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping each slice to create a uniform, compact arrangement. After each layer, drizzle some of the cream mixture and sprinkle a portion of the shredded cheese.
- Continue layering potatoes, cream, and cheese until all ingredients are used, ensuring the top layer is covered with cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, creating a tight seal to trap moisture and help the potatoes cook evenly.
- Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife.
- Remove from the oven and let the gratin rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot as a side dish, garnished with fresh herbs like thyme or chives if desired.
Tips
- Slice Consistently: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to ensure potato slices are uniformly thin (about 1/8 inch). This guarantees even cooking and a beautiful layered texture.
- Choose the Right Cheese: While cheddar works great, try Gruyère for an authentic French flavor or a blend of cheeses for more complexity.
- Don't Rush the Baking: Covering the dish initially helps the potatoes cook evenly, while the final uncovered baking creates that irresistible golden, crispy top.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the gratin to sit for 10-15 minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving much easier.
- Enhance Flavor: Experiment with adding herbs like thyme or rosemary between layers for extra depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 65mg
