Sunday Creamy Potato Gratin

Name: Sunday Creamy Potato Gratin
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs potatoes, thinly sliced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the dish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When Sundays roll around, there's nothing I love more than preparing a warm and comforting cream potato gratin. The moment I pull it out of the oven, the melted cheese and creamy layers of potatoes make my kitchen feel like a cozy haven. I often tweak the ingredients based on what I have available, but I always stick to the essence of this dish, creating a creamy, indulgent meal perfect for family gatherings or a quiet dinner at home.

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:16:12.294Z

I remember the first time I made this creamy potato gratin; it was for a family gathering, and I knew I had to impress everyone. I layered the thinly sliced potatoes with a rich, cheesy sauce and topped it off with breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch. Everyone went back for seconds, and I felt a sense of pride! Keeping the potatoes uniform in thickness is key to ensuring they cook evenly, so I always use a mandoline for precision.

Now, I love experimenting with the flavors. Sometimes, I’ll add garlic or fresh herbs to the cream for an extra kick, making it my own. One tip I've learned is to let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the creamy layers will hold together better. You won't believe how satisfying it is to slice into this gratin knowing I created something so delightful.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy layers that comfort the soul
Cheese that creates a deliciously crispy top
Versatile for any meal—perfect as a side or main dish

      

The Potato Choice

Choosing the right type of potato is crucial for a successful gratin. For this dish, I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. Their high starch content yields a creamy texture that holds up well under the richness of the cream and cheese. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they tend to remain firm and won’t create that melt-in-your-mouth quality you want.

Make sure to slice your potatoes uniformly, about 1/8 inch thick, so they cook evenly. A mandoline slicer is an excellent tool for achieving perfectly even slices quickly. If you’re hand-slicing, just keep the slices consistent; this helps achieve a beautifully layered appearance as well.

Cheese Matters

The choice of cheese significantly impacts the flavor and texture of your gratin. Gruyère is fantastic for its melting qualities and nutty flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Fontina or even a sharp cheddar for a bolder taste. Just ensure they have good melting properties to maintain that creamy consistency throughout the dish.

Layering different cheeses not only enhances the taste but also creates a delightful contrast in textures—just like the crispy cheese top you’re aiming for. Remember to reserve some cheese for the top layer; a generous coating will make for a beautifully browned and crunchy crust that's irresistible.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best things about this creamy potato gratin is how well it holds up, making it an ideal make-ahead dish. You can assemble it a day in advance, simply cover it with foil and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through evenly.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating, place it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to retain moisture. This not only keeps the gratin creamy, but also revitalizes that crispy top!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Sunday Creamy Potato Gratin

Main Ingredients

2 lbs potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the dish

Instructions

How to Make Sunday Creamy Potato Gratin

Prepare the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter. In a bowl, mix heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Layer the Potatoes

Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom of the greased dish. Pour a portion of the cream mixture over the potatoes, followed by a sprinkle of Gruyère and Parmesan cheese.

Repeat the Layers

Continue layering the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheeses until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.

Add Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top cheese layer for added crunch.

Bake

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Rest and Serve

Let the gratin sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some cooked bacon bits or sautéed onions between the layers.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Sunday creamy potato gratin with a simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing will nicely balance the rich, creamy layers of the gratin. Additionally, roasted vegetables can provide a colorful and nutritious complement while enhancing the overall dish's flavor profile.

This gratin can also serve as a hearty main dish when accompanied by protein such as grilled chicken or roasted lamb. The rich flavors of the gratin elevate the meal, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.

Variations to Try

To add a twist to your classic gratin, consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms, onions, or even spinach between the layers for an extra depth of flavor and nutrition. These additions are not only delicious but also add color and texture to the dish without compromising its creamy essence.

For a spicy kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or sprinkle cayenne pepper between the layers. Alternatively, herbs like fresh thyme or rosemary can lend a wonderful aromatic flair to this comfort dish, enhancing its warm, inviting character.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or fontina for a unique flavor.

→ How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the gratin up to the baking stage a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just bake it when ready to serve.

→ What type of potatoes are best for gratin?

Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold work best as they break down nicely and create a creamy texture.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.