Description
This creamy, cheesy potato gratin is a comforting and versatile dish that brings rich flavors and textures to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced or grated
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 3 tablespoons flour (use gluten-free flour if needed)
- 1½ cups milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 1½ cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 1 pinch nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This step is essential for ensuring your gratin cooks evenly and achieves that perfect bubbly, golden top.
- Next, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s bubbly, add the finely diced onion, stirring it gently until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 5 minutes. Afterward, add the minced garlic and thyme, releasing their aromatic goodness for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle in the flour and continue stirring for about a minute until it’s lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, allowing it to simmer. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens, which should take around 1 to 2 minutes. Fold in half a cup of the shredded Gruyère cheese and season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste, stirring until smooth.
- In your pre-prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of the creamy sauce over the bottom. Then, begin layering the thin potato slices evenly. Between each layer, add a spoonful of sauce.
- Once all the potatoes are layered, pour any remaining creamy sauce over the top and sprinkle the remaining Gruyère cheese generously on top.
- Place your dish in the oven and bake for about 45 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly, and a knife can easily pierce the potatoes.
Notes
Use starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet for the best texture and creaminess. If made ahead, refrigerate before baking and heat when ready.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
Nutrition
- Calories: 341 kcal
- Sodium: 170 mg
- Protein: 11 g