Potato Gratin Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 kg (about 3 pounds) potatoes (such as Russet or Yukon Gold)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 300 ml (1 1/4 cups) heavy cream
• 200 ml (3/4 cup) milk
• 200 g (2 cups) grated cheese (such as Gruyère, cheddar, or a mix)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

1. Slice the Potatoes:

• Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly (about 1/8 inch thick). A mandoline slicer can be helpful for uniform slices.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Mixture

1. Mix the Cream and Milk:

• In a bowl, combine the heavy cream and milk. Stir in the minced garlic, and add salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).

1. Add Cheese:

• Reserve a small amount of grated cheese for the top, and mix the remaining cheese into the cream mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the Gratin

1. Layer the Potatoes:

• Place a layer of potato slices in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Season with a little salt and pepper.

1. Add Cream Mixture:

• Pour a portion of the cream mixture over the potatoes. Continue layering the potatoes and cream mixture until all the potatoes are used, finishing with a layer of cream mixture.

1. Top with Cheese:

• Sprinkle the reserved cheese evenly over the top of the gratin.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the Gratin:

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbling.

1. Check for Doneness:

• You can test if the potatoes are done by inserting a fork into the center; it should go in easily.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Let it Rest:

• Allow the gratin to cool for a few minutes before serving to help it set.

1. Garnish:

• Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, if desired.

1. Serve:

• Serve this creamy Potato Gratin as a comforting side dish with meats, poultry, or as a hearty main course with a side salad.

Tips:

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the gratin a day ahead and reheat it in the oven before serving.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors, such as Parmesan, fontina, or a blend of cheeses.

This Potato Gratin is a classic comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor—perfect for any meal!