Introduction
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than this Crispy Parmesan and Gruyere Potato Gratin. With layers of tender potatoes, rich cream, and two types of cheese—Gruyere and Parmesan—this dish delivers an irresistible combination of creaminess and crispiness. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, holiday gathering, or as a decadent side dish, this gratin is sure to be a hit.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves cheesy, savory dishes that are rich in flavor and texture. The combination of Gruyere and Parmesan cheese adds a sophisticated depth of flavor, while the infused garlic cream ensures that each bite is packed with richness. The crispy cheese topping is the perfect finishing touch, adding a satisfying crunch to the tender potato layers.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small shallot, diced
- 5 medium Yukon Gold or White potatoes
- 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) to get it ready for baking.
2. Infuse the Cream
In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, kosher salt, and minced garlic. Simmer over low heat for 5 minutes to allow the garlic to infuse its flavor into the cream. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Potatoes
Using a mandoline slicer, thinly slice the potatoes to about 1/8 inch thick. This will ensure even cooking and a perfectly tender texture.
4. Sauté the Shallots
In a 12-inch cast iron pan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the diced shallots and sauté until they become caramelized, about 5 minutes. The shallots add a rich sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the dish.
5. Layer the Potatoes
Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes in a spiral pattern over the caramelized shallots in the cast iron pan. The even layering ensures every bite has a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
6. Add the Cream
Pour the infused cream mixture evenly over the potatoes, making sure to distribute it so that all the layers are well coated.
7. Bake
Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes. This slow bake allows the potatoes to become tender and absorb the rich cream.
8. Broil the Cheese
Once the potatoes are tender, remove the pan from the oven and increase the oven temperature to broil. Uncover the potatoes and top them with grated Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses. Sprinkle with fresh thyme for added flavor.
9. Finish Under the Broiler
Return the pan to the oven and broil for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is crispy, golden, and bubbling. Be sure to watch closely to avoid burning.
10. Serve and Store
Remove from the oven and serve warm. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated the next day. The dish reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mandoline slicer (for thin potato slices)
- 12-inch cast iron pan (or an oven-safe skillet)
- Small saucepan
- Aluminum foil
- Whisk for the cream mixture
Tips and Shortcuts
- Thin Slices: Use a mandoline slicer to get perfectly even, thin potato slices for uniform cooking.
- Cheese Variation: If Gruyere isn’t available, you can substitute it with Swiss or even cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Garlic Infusion: To intensify the garlic flavor, let the cream sit for a few extra minutes after simmering.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Cheese Swap: Try swapping Gruyere with fontina or cheddar for a twist on the classic gratin.
- Herb Addition: For an extra herbaceous touch, mix in chopped rosemary or parsley along with the thyme.
- Veggie Variation: Add thinly sliced onions or leeks to the potato layers for an additional layer of flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. The gratin can also be reheated in the microwave, but it’s best to use the oven to retain the crispy topping.
Food and Drink Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken, beef, or pork. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette is a perfect side to balance out the richness of the gratin. For drinks, a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes! You can assemble the gratin ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just bake it as instructed, then add the cheese and broil.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have a cast iron pan? A: If you don’t have a cast iron pan, you can use any oven-safe skillet or a baking dish. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if needed.
Q: Can I use a different type of potato? A: Yes, Yukon Gold and White potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, but russet potatoes can also work. Just be sure to slice them thinly for even cooking.
Q: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream? A: Heavy cream provides the richest texture, but you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.
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Crispy Parmesan and Gruyere Potato Gratin
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Description
Crispy Parmesan and Gruyere Potato Gratin: A rich, golden baked dish with layers of tender potatoes, creamy cheese, and a savory crispy topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings