Name: Golden Potato Wreath
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Ingredients: 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled; 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled; 1½ cups heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 sprigs fresh thyme; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional: fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish

As the holiday season approaches, the appeal of a show-stopping side dish becomes ever more important. The Golden Potato Wreath stands out not just for its elegant presentation but also for its layered flavors that delight the palate. This stunning dish artfully combines creamy Yukon Gold potatoes and sweet potatoes, enveloped in a thyme-scented garlic cream. Topped with luscious Gruyère and Parmesan cheese, it’s more than just a recipe; it’s a centerpiece that will elevate your dining experience.

The best part? This Golden Potato Wreath is surprisingly easy to make! With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can create a dish that not only looks gorgeous but tastes phenomenal as well. Whether you’re hosting a festive feast or gathering for a cozy family dinner, this wreath is sure to impress. It’s a delightful blend of comfort and sophistication that everyone will appreciate.

Why You’ll Love This Golden Potato Wreath

Visually Stunning: The wreath shape is perfect for special occasions, making it a showstopper on any table.
Flavorful Layers: Enjoy the balance of creamy, sweet, and savory flavors with every bite.
Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled in advance, allowing for hassle-free cooking on the day of your event.
Versatile Ingredients: Simple and common ingredients can easily be swapped or adjusted to cater to dietary preferences.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin cooking the Golden Potato Wreath, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking. Then, grease a bundt or springform pan using unsalted butter or nonstick spray to ensure that the wreath unmolds easily.

For slicing the potatoes, a sharp knife or a mandoline is vital in achieving uniform slices of about ⅛ inch thickness, which helps them cook evenly. Consider using a large bowl filled with cold water to soak the potato slices for a few minutes, helping remove excess starch for a creamier texture. You will also need a saucepan to prepare the garlic cream mixture, and keep a wooden spoon or whisk handy for stirring. Having a spatula ready will help in the later step when it’s time to unmold the wreath.

Ingredients

3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled
1½ cups heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 sprigs fresh thyme
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

To kick things off, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that the potatoes will cook evenly once they’re placed in the oven. While the oven is warming up, take your bundt or springform pan and grease it generously with unsalted butter or a nonstick spray. This preparation will make it easier to remove the finished wreath later on without any sticking.

Step 2: Thinly Slice the Potatoes

Next, turn your attention to the star ingredients: Yukon Gold and sweet potatoes. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the potatoes thinly, aiming for uniform pieces of about ⅛ inch thick. After slicing, immediately soak them in a bowl of cold water for roughly 15-20 minutes. This soaking process helps reduce unnecessary starch, contributing to a creamier texture in the final dish. Once soaked, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.

Step 3: Create the Garlic Cream Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, minced garlic, and fresh thyme. Warm the mixture over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. This heating process allows the flavors to meld beautifully while infusing the cream with the fragrance of garlic and thyme. After the mixture is warmed through, remove the thyme sprigs and set the cream aside for assembling the wreath.

Step 4: Assemble the Wreath

Now comes the fun part—assembling your Golden Potato Wreath! Start by layering slices of the Yukon Gold and sweet potatoes vertically in the greased bundt pan, slightly overlapping each slice, similar to creating a spiral. As you work your way up the sides of the pan, sprinkle a bit of the shredded Gruyère cheese between layers for added flavor.

Step 5: Add Cream and Finish with Cheese

After arranging all the potatoes, take the warm garlic cream mixture and pour about half over the assembled potato wreath. Gently tap the pan to help the cream settle into the layers. Next, pour the remaining cream mixture over the potatoes and finish off by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese generously on top. This layer will give a deliciously rich crust to the wreath as it bakes!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover your bundt pan loosely with foil to avoid over-browning. Place the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. After this initial period, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes. This uncovered baking time allows top to become golden and bubbly, which is what you’re aiming for!

Step 7: Rest and Unmold

Once baked to perfection, remove the wreath from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time allows the layers to set, making unmolding much easier. After resting, run a spatula around the edges of the pan and gently invert the wreath onto a serving plate. Garnish with optional fresh thyme or parsley to add a touch of color and flavor before presenting it to your guests.

Variations

Protein: Add cooked bacon bits or crumbled sausage between the layers for a hearty twist.
Vegetables: Experiment with adding layers of roasted garlic or sautéed onions for an extra flavor boost.
Spices: Try different spices like smoked paprika or onion powder for a unique taste that can personalize the dish.

Cooking Notes

Ensure that the potatoes are sliced uniformly to promote even cooking.
The wreath can be prepared a day ahead; simply cover and refrigerate before baking.
For a lighter version, substitute some of the cream with vegetable stock.
Monitor the cheese closely at the end of baking to prevent over-browning.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the Golden Potato Wreath with a roasted chicken or turkey for a perfect holiday meal.
Enhance the meal by serving with a fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette.

Tips

Use a mandoline for consistent potato slices if you have one available.
Feel free to adjust the cheese amounts based on personal preference for a cheesier wreath.
Let it rest to cool slightly before serving for easier slicing.
Consider spicing up the cream mixture with flavors like nutmeg or cayenne for a different twist.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 10g
Sodium: 400mg

FAQs

Can I make this wreath ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the wreath a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just adjust the baking time as needed.

What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?

Yukon Gold potatoes are preferred for their creamy texture, while sweet potatoes add a lovely sweetness.

Can I use other cheeses besides Gruyère?

Absolutely! Cheddar, fontina, or even a mix of your favorites can substitute for Gruyère.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Conclusion

The Golden Potato Wreath is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration on a plate! Each layer is infused with delectable flavors that blend beautifully, making it the perfect addition to your holiday table. Its stunning presentation leaves your guests in awe while they savor each bite. Whether you decide to stick to the original recipe or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite within your home. Share your experience in the comments, and don’t hesitate to pass along tips or variations you’ve tried!