If you are craving something warm, cheesy, and irresistibly cozy, this Gratin Potatoes with Cheese recipe is exactly what you need. Known affectionately as The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe, it brings together tender, thinly sliced potatoes bathed in rich cream and topped with a golden, bubbly cheesy crust that promises to please every bite. This dish is perfect for any season and instantly turns any meal into a memorable occasion filled with homestyle goodness.

The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple staples that come together to create layers of flavor and luscious textures. Each one plays a vital role—from the creamy base that tenderizes the potatoes to the sharp cheeses that crown the dish with a perfectly gratinated finish.

Potatoes (1 kg, peeled and thinly sliced): The hearty foundation offering structure and silky softness once cooked.
Garlic (2 cloves, crushed): Adds a subtle aromatic depth that enhances every mouthful.
Double cream (300 ml): The rich, velvety liquid that envelopes the potatoes, ensuring every slice is decadently tender.
Milk (150 ml): Lightens the cream slightly for a balanced texture and prevents heaviness.
Gruyère cheese (100 g, grated): Melts beautifully to form a bubbly, nutty crust that defines the dish.
Parmesan cheese (50 g, grated): Adds a sharp, savory accent boosting complexity in every baked bite.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors while enhancing the cheese and cream’s richness.
Butter (a knob): Used for greasing the dish, it ensures a luscious finish and prevents sticking.

How to Make Gratin Potatoes with Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) to get it ready for the creamy sensation coming its way. Then generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter; this little step keeps your gratin from sticking and contributes to the golden crust that makes this dish so irresistible.

Step 2: Layering the Potatoes and Garlic

Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes carefully in your baking dish. As you layer the potatoes, sprinkle the crushed garlic evenly over the top to ensure the flavor infuses throughout the dish as it bakes, giving each bite its signature cozy warmth and garlicky hint.

Step 3: Seasoning and Cream Mixture

Season your layers with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This seasoning is critical because it elevates the mild potatoes and rich cheese, creating a balanced, flavorful dish. Pour the double cream and milk blend evenly over the potatoes—this combination is what transforms simple taters into a luscious indulgence.

Step 4: Cheese Topping and Baking

Next, sprinkle the grated Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses generously on top. These cheeses melt and brown beautifully, creating the cheesy golden crust that is the hallmark of The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe. Bake in your preheated oven for about an hour, or until the potatoes are perfectly tender and the cheese is bubbling with spots of golden brown.

How to Serve Gratin Potatoes with Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a lively color and fresh brightness that contrasts wonderfully with the rich, creamy layers beneath. For extra flair, a light dusting of smoked paprika can add a subtle warmth and vibrant hue.

Side Dishes

This gratin pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with tangy vinaigrette, cutting through the richness and providing a refreshing balance. Roasted or steamed green vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also complement the creamy potatoes, delivering both texture and nutritious contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve individual portions in small ramekins, letting each guest enjoy their own personal gratin. Alternatively, garnish the dish with thinly sliced radishes or microgreens for an unexpected pop of color and texture that will impress at any dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your gratin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making your leftovers even better. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent the potatoes from drying out.

Freezing

If you wish to freeze this dish, prepare it fully but slightly underbake to preserve texture. Cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to two months. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the whole dish covered in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until thoroughly heated and the cheese crust re-crisps, restoring that luscious, fresh-baked appeal.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Gruyère and Parmesan are classic choices for their melting qualities and flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like cheddar, fontina, or even mozzarella for different tastes and textures. Just keep in mind how each cheese melts to maintain that perfect gratin crust.

Should I peel the potatoes before slicing?

Yes, peeling the potatoes creates a smoother, creamier texture inside the dish. However, if you prefer a rustic feel, you can leave the skins on, especially if you use organic potatoes. The skins add texture and nutrients but may alter the dish’s traditional creaminess.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy components with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream, almond milk, and vegan cheeses. While the texture and flavor will differ somewhat, it’s a delicious way to enjoy The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe if you’re avoiding dairy.

How thin should I slice the potatoes?

Slicing the potatoes thinly, about 1/8 inch thick, ensures they cook evenly and absorb the cream and cheese flavors. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent slices for the best texture.

Can I add herbs or spices to customize the flavor?

Definitely! Fresh thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of nutmeg work beautifully in this recipe, enhancing the earthy and creamy components without overpowering them. Experimenting with your favorite herbs is a great way to make The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe your own.

Final Thoughts

Making this Gratin Potatoes with Cheese is like giving yourself a warm hug from the inside out. Its creamy richness and golden crust capture the true essence of The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe. If you want to bring comfort and joy to your table with a dish that feels both luxurious and homey, give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to meal.

Gratin Potatoes with Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 10 reviews

Author: Simon
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A classic Gratin Potatoes with Cheese recipe featuring tender sliced potatoes baked in a creamy mixture of double cream and milk, topped with melted Gruyère and Parmesan cheese for a rich, golden crust. This comforting dish is perfect as a side or a hearty main.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the gratin.
Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter to prevent sticking and add richness to the dish.
Layer Ingredients: Arrange thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the baking dish, adding crushed garlic between layers to infuse flavor.
Season: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg evenly over the potatoes to enhance the creamy flavors.
Add Cream Mixture: Pour the double cream and milk mixture evenly over the potatoes ensuring they are well coated.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle grated Gruyère cheese over the layered potatoes for a rich and nutty flavor.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Notes

For a slightly lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the double cream.
Allow the gratin to rest for 10 minutes after baking to set and make serving easier.
You can add thinly sliced onions between the potato layers for extra flavor.
Cover the dish with foil for the first 40 minutes to prevent over-browning, then uncover to brown the top.
Use a mandoline slicer for uniform potato slices for even cooking.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French