There’s something magical about a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of comfort and flavor. This Cheesy Potato Gratin is the epitome of culinary warmth – a creamy, golden masterpiece that promises to become an instant family favorite. Each layer tells a story of rich, melted cheese and perfectly cooked potatoes, creating a side dish so luxurious it could easily steal the spotlight from any main course.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs (1.8 kg) potatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- 5.3 oz (150g) processed cheese
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3.5 oz (100g) grated cheese (Gouda or Emmental)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the perfect cooking environment for your potato gratin.
- Potato Preparation: Carefully peel the potatoes and slice them into uniform, thin rounds. Consistency is key to ensuring even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
Creating the Creamy Base
- Flavor Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, milk, salt, black pepper, and a delicate pinch of nutmeg. Whisk thoroughly to create a rich, aromatic base for the gratin.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Generously grease a baking dish with butter, ensuring no spot is left uncoated to prevent sticking.
Layering and Baking
- Layering Technique: Create beautiful layers by alternating potato slices with processed cheese and the cream mixture. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the grated Gouda or Emmental cheese over the top layer, creating a golden, crispy crust.
- Initial Baking: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes, allowing the potatoes to become tender and absorb all the creamy goodness.
- Final Browning: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and becomes delightfully bubbly.
- Resting Period: Allow the gratin to rest for 10 minutes after removing from the oven. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
- Finishing Touch: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty: Easy
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 380-420
- Protein: 12-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fat: 22-25g
- Calcium: 25-30% Daily Value
Pro Chef Tips
- Choose starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the creamiest texture.
- Slice potatoes uniformly using a mandoline for perfect, even layers.
- Let the gratin rest to allow the sauce to set and make serving easier.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Potato Gratin pairs perfectly with:
- Roasted meats
- Grilled vegetables
- Simple green salad
- As a standalone vegetarian main course
Wine Pairing
Complement this rich dish with:
- Chardonnay
- Light-bodied Pinot Noir
- Crisp white wine
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance
- Refrigerate unbaked and add 10-15 minutes to cooking time
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days
Prepare to be transported to a world of cheesy, potato-filled bliss – comfort food has never tasted so good!