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 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Home Inspiration

I absolutely adore making Sunday Creamy Potato Gratin because it transforms a simple family meal into something truly special. The creamy layers of potatoes smothered in cheese and herbs create a rich symphony of flavors that is hard to resist. On lazy Sundays, this dish brings everyone to the table, filling the house with a warm, inviting aroma. It's surprisingly easy to prepare, making it my go-to recipe for both family gatherings and cozy nights at home. Let me share with you how making this gratin can brighten up your Sunday dinners.

Created by

Tallulah Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-12T05:05:35.389Z

When I first attempted this Sunday Creamy Potato Gratin, I was amazed by how something so simple could turn out so incredibly indulgent. I experimented with different types of cheese, settling on a combination of Gruyère and sharp cheddar, which really made each bite deliciously complex. The key is to slice the potatoes thinly and let them layer in the creamy sauce, which allows them to absorb all the flavors and ensures an even cook throughout.

My technique involves preheating the milk and cream before pouring it over the layers, which helps infuse the flavors right from the start. I always top it off with breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of Parmesan for that perfect golden crust. Trust me, this dish will become a staple in your home, just like it has in mine!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy layers of cheese-soaked potatoes for ultimate comfort food
Rich flavors enhanced by fresh herbs and spices
Golden, crispy topping that adds the perfect texture

The Importance of Potato Variety

Choosing the right type of potato is crucial for achieving that desired creamy texture in your gratin. Yukon Gold potatoes are my top choice because they have a naturally buttery flavor and creamy consistency that holds well during the baking process. Unlike russet potatoes, which can become grainy, Yukon Golds retain moisture and blend seamlessly with the cheeses and cream, creating a luscious, satisfying dish. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use red or white potatoes, but ensure they are similarly starchy to maintain the right texture.

Make sure to slice your potatoes thinly and uniformly—aim for about 1/8 inch thick. Using a mandoline can help you achieve even slices, which promote uniform cooking. This prevents some pieces from becoming mushy while others stay hard. Consistent slicing also allows the creamy cheese mixture to penetrate every layer, maximizing flavor throughout the gratin.

Tips for the Creamy Cheese Mixture

In this recipe, the combination of heavy cream and whole milk creates a luxurious base for the gratin. The heavy cream contributes to the richness, while the milk lightens the mixture slightly, preventing it from being overly thick. If you want to lighten the dish further, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Just be aware that you might lose some of that decadent creaminess.

When mixing the cheeses, take care to grate them fresh instead of using pre-shredded cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and has a better flavor than the bagged varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents. For a bit more complexity, you can experiment with swapping in different cheeses—think aged Gouda or a touch of mozzarella for additional stretch. Just remember to keep a predominant flavor, as too many varieties can muddy the dish.

Storing and Serving Your Gratin

After baking, let your creamy potato gratin cool for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to scoop and serve. It also helps the flavors meld beautifully. If you're serving this dish for a crowd, you can keep it warm in a low oven, around 200°F (93°C), until everyone is ready to dig in.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out. For longer storage, this gratin freezes well; simply cover it tightly after it has completely cooled, and it should keep for about two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to ensure the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a luscious and savory potato gratin.

Ingredients

2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

These ingredients will combine beautifully for a fabulous gratin.

Instructions

Follow these steps to achieve the perfect creamy potato gratin.

Prepare the Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish with butter.

Layer the Potatoes

Begin layering the sliced potatoes in the prepared dish, slightly overlapping them.

Mix the Cream and Cheese

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream, whole milk, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper over medium heat. Once warm, remove from heat and stir in the Gruyère and cheddar cheese until melted.

Assemble the Gratin

Pour the warm cheese mixture over the layered potatoes. Ensure they are well coated. Top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Once cooked, let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For a more flavorful dish, you can add layers of caramelized onions or incorporate sautéed mushrooms between the potato layers.

Variations to Try

For those who enjoy a little kick, consider adding cooked bacon or sautéed onions to the layers. The smokiness of bacon adds depth and a savory contrast to the creamy potatoes, while caramelized onions provide a touch of sweetness. Incorporating seasonal vegetables, like zucchini or spinach, not only enhances the flavor but also adds a nutritional boost to your gratin.

If you want to give your gratin an herbaceous lift, try adding layers of fresh spinach or swapping the thyme for fresh rosemary or sage. Fresh herbs can greatly enhance the complexity of the dish, giving it a garden-fresh aroma that elevates the comfort factor. Remember to adjust the amount according to your taste preferences—fresh herbs are often more potent than dried ones.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your gratin comes out overly watery, it could be due to the moisture content in the potatoes. To combat this, be sure to pat the sliced potatoes dry before layering them in the dish. Using a variety with less moisture, like Yukon Gold, will also help factually. Additionally, if you notice the top is getting dark too quickly while baking, you can tent it lightly with foil during the last few minutes to prevent burning while allowing the center to cook thoroughly.

On the other hand, if your gratin lacks that desirable golden and crispy top, try broiling it for a few minutes at the end. Watching closely, you can achieve that crunch without overcooking the insides. Be cautious, though; broilers can be intense, and staying nearby ensures that you don't end up with a burnt top.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this gratin ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra baking minutes when ready to serve.

→ What kind of potatoes are best for gratin?

Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal as they hold their shape and have a creamy texture when baked.

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Fontina, mozzarella, or even blue cheese for a unique twist.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.