Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of gratin potatoes, a dish that effortlessly blends the comforting warmth of potatoes with the luxurious textures of cheese and cream. This recipe redefines classic dauphinoise potatoes by infusing a hint of thyme and nutmeg, creating a symphony of flavors perfect for any occasion. Whether for a family dinner or a festive celebration, this dish promises to captivate your taste buds with its savory richness.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing)
- 8 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 2 ½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 dried bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with the unsalted butter.
- Layer the Potatoes: Arrange half the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, salt, pepper, nutmeg, bay leaves, and thyme. Heat the mixture until warm but not boiling, stirring occasionally.
- Assemble the Layers: Pour half of the warm cream mixture over the first layer of potatoes. Sprinkle half the shredded Gruyère cheese over the potatoes. Add the remaining potato slices in a second layer and pour the rest of the cream mixture over the top. Finish with the remaining Gruyère cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the oven and cover with a lid or foil. Let it bake for about 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Uncover the dish and return it to the oven for another 25 to 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft and the top turns a rich, golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh thyme for a fragrant finish.
Conclusion
This creamy gratin potatoes recipe is more than a side dish—it’s a showstopper that embodies the essence of comfort and elegance. With its golden, bubbling crust and velvety layers, this dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, fresh salads, or as a centerpiece in its own right. Relish the rich flavors and make this recipe a staple in your culinary repertoire.
The Perfectly Creamy Gratin Potatoes: A Timeless Comfort Dish
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for greasing
- 8 ounces Gruyère cheese shredded
- 2 ½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic finely minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 dried bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with the unsalted butter.
- Layer the Potatoes: Arrange half the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, salt, pepper, nutmeg, bay leaves, and thyme. Heat the mixture until warm but not boiling, stirring occasionally.
- Assemble the Layers: Pour half of the warm cream mixture over the first layer of potatoes. Sprinkle half the shredded Gruyère cheese over the potatoes. Add the remaining potato slices in a second layer and pour the rest of the cream mixture over the top. Finish with the remaining Gruyère cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the oven and cover with a lid or foil. Let it bake for about 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Uncover the dish and return it to the oven for another 25 to 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft and the top turns a rich, golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh thyme for a fragrant finish.