Description
A warm, indulgent side dish perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. This gratin layers tender sweet potatoes with a creamy, flavorful sauce and melted cheese, creating a comforting dish that everyone will love. Its golden top and rich interior make it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
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3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
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1 ½ cups heavy cream
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1 cup whole milk
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
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½ teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 cup shredded Gruyère or sharp cheddar cheese
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for greasing the dish
Optional for garnish: -
Fresh parsley, chopped
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Additional thyme sprigs
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and help the gratin brown evenly.
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Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into ⅛-inch-thick rounds. Use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices if available.
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In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, thyme, and nutmeg. Heat over medium heat until warm but not boiling. Season with salt and black pepper.
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Arrange a layer of sweet potato slices at the bottom of the prepared dish, slightly overlapping. Pour a portion of the cream mixture over the layer and sprinkle with a small amount of shredded cheese.
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Repeat layering until all sweet potatoes, cream, and cheese are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
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Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes, until potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
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Allow the gratin to rest for 10–15 minutes before serving to let the cream set.
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Garnish with chopped parsley and thyme sprigs. Serve warm alongside your favorite main dish or as a hearty vegetarian option.
Notes
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Use a combination of Gruyère and cheddar for a richer flavor.
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Plant-based milk and vegan cheese can be used for a dairy-free version.
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Slice sweet potatoes thinly and evenly for uniform cooking.
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Assemble ahead of time and refrigerate; bake before serving, adding 10–15 minutes if chilled.
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Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a crispier top, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55–60 minutes