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Easy Potato Gratin

Easy Potato Gratin – Creamy Comfort for Family Dinners

This easy potato gratin features creamy layers of potatoes and melted Gruyere, perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dishes
Cuisine: French
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Gratin
  • 4 cups Starchy Potatoes (Russets or Yukon Golds) Russets for creamy texture; Yukon Golds for buttery flavor.
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Best to control saltiness.
  • 1 medium Onion (minced) Adds depth and sweetness.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (grated) Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme (chopped) Can use dried thyme if needed.
  • 3 tablespoons Flour Essential for thickening cheese sauce.
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Creates a creamy base.
  • 1.5 cups Gruyere Cheese (shredded) Rich, nutty flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Enhances cheese flavor.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • mandoline
  • Medium saucepan
  • aluminum foil

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Slice potatoes into 1/8-inch rounds and place in water.
  3. Melt butter in a saucepan, sauté onion for 3-5 minutes, then add garlic and thyme for another minute.
  4. Sprinkle flour over sautéed mixture to form a roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened. Then stir in cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  6. In a buttered baking dish, layer half of the potato slices, then half of the cheese sauce. Repeat layers.
  7. Top with remaining cheese.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 45-60 minutes until tender.
  9. Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispy top.
  10. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Serve alongside roasted meats or a crisp green salad. Great for meal prep and can be frozen for later use.

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