Name: Traditional Potato Gratin
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup whole milk; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)

A golden, bubbling dish of Traditional Potato Gratin is pure comfort. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with rich cream, butter, garlic, and cheese, then baked to perfection until irresistibly crispy on top and meltingly tender inside. It’s a humble yet luxurious side that elevates any meal, whether you’re serving roast beef at a holiday feast or a simple weeknight chicken.

The beauty of this classic French dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, it transforms into something greater than the sum of its parts. Creamy, savory, and deeply satisfying, it brings a touch of rustic elegance to the table and earns rave reviews from anyone who digs in.

Why You’ll Love This Traditional Potato Gratin

This gratin isn’t fussy, but it tastes like something you’d order at a bistro. It’s rich and creamy without being too heavy, and the top layer gets that dreamy golden crust that’s impossible to resist. It pairs beautifully with everything from grilled meats to roasted vegetables, and it’s just as good reheated the next day.

Once you make it, you’ll realize how adaptable it is. Add caramelized onions, a touch of nutmeg, or even swap in some Gruyère for extra flair. But even in its simplest form, this potato gratin is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

The best potatoes for a gratin are the ones that strike the perfect balance between starchiness and moisture. Yukon Golds are an ideal choice because they hold their shape while becoming tender and creamy. Russets work too, offering a softer, more melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whatever you do, avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes – they just don’t give you that luscious, creamy consistency you’re after.

Ingredients for the Traditional Potato Gratin

When it comes to gratin, each ingredient plays a deliciously specific role. This dish may look and taste indulgent, but it only takes a few basics to get it just right.

Yukon Gold Potatoes
Heavy Cream
Whole Milk
Butter
Garlic
Gruyère Cheese
Salt
Black Pepper
Fresh Thyme (optional)

How To Make the Traditional Potato Gratin

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Peel and thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline or sharp knife. Try to keep the slices uniform so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Infuse the Cream

In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme if using. Heat gently over medium heat until warm and infused with flavor. Do not boil.

Step 3: Layer the Dish

Butter a baking dish and arrange a layer of potatoes on the bottom. Pour a bit of the cream mixture over them, sprinkle cheese, and repeat the layers until you use up all the ingredients.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Cover loosely with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 20-30 minutes until golden and bubbling. Let it rest before serving.

Serving and Storing Your Potato Gratin

Traditional Potato Gratin makes a rich side dish that comfortably feeds six to eight people. It holds up well for gatherings and holidays because it can be made ahead and simply reheated before serving. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days and are easily warmed in the oven or microwave.

The gratin also freezes nicely. Just be sure to let it cool completely, then wrap tightly before freezing. Reheat from frozen in a covered dish at 350°F until hot throughout.

What to Serve With Traditional Potato Gratin?

Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken

The crispy skin and juicy meat of roast chicken are made even better with creamy gratin on the side.

Slow-Cooked Pot Roast

Tender beef and rich gravy pair naturally with layers of buttery potatoes.

Garlic Green Beans

A lighter green veggie adds balance to this decadent dish.

Glazed Carrots

Sweetness and vibrant color make a great contrast to the gratin’s savory tones.

Grilled Salmon

A modern pairing, but the buttery salmon plays well with creamy potatoes.

Mushroom Stroganoff

A vegetarian favorite that feels hearty and comforting.

Classic Caprese Salad

Bright tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil cut through the richness perfectly.

Roasted Asparagus

For a crisp, slightly bitter bite alongside the mellow gratin.

Want More Potato Side Dish Ideas?

If you love this Traditional Potato Gratin, here are a few other delicious potato recipes you might enjoy from Janet Dishes:

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes for a bold, savory twist.
Greek Lemon Potatoes if you crave something bright and zesty.
Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs to put your extras to good use.
Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach Potatoes and Mushrooms if you love creamy flavors.
Tennessee Onions for another ultra-cheesy, baked side you’ll crave.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can find it fast next time you’re craving cozy.

Let me know in the comments if you made it your own. Did you try nutmeg or mix in another cheese? I love seeing how you tweak it.

Explore beautifully curated, health-boosting dishes and family favorites on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next must-make side dish.

Conclusion

This Traditional Potato Gratin is the kind of dish that makes people pause at the table and say, “Wow.” It brings comfort, elegance, and that nostalgic feeling of home. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, it’s bound to steal the show and win over every appetite.