Comfort Food Bliss: Cheesy Potato Gratin Casserole Recipe
When it comes to classic comfort food that feels like a warm hug, few dishes rival the timeless cheesy potato gratin casserole. Layers of tender potatoes, rich cream, and melted cheese come together in this indulgent bake, creating the perfect side dish for family dinners, holiday feasts, or even as the star of a weeknight meal.
Whether you’re preparing a Thanksgiving spread, looking for a cozy recipe to bring to a potluck, or just craving something hearty and filling, this gratin delivers every time. With its golden crust, velvety texture, and irresistible flavor, it’s a dish that draws people back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – Just a few pantry staples create layers of rich taste.
- Perfect for Special Occasions – A show-stopping side dish for Christmas, Easter, or Thanksgiving.
- Customizable – Add bacon, ham, or caramelized onions to make it your own.
- Make Ahead Friendly – Assemble it in advance and bake right before serving.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese (or substitute with Swiss)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter. - Prepare Cream Mixture
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, then remove from heat. - Layer the Potatoes
Arrange half of the potato slices evenly in the prepared casserole dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes. Sprinkle with half of the Gruyère, cheddar, and Parmesan. - Repeat Layers
Add the remaining potato slices, pour the rest of the cream mixture, and top with the remaining cheeses. - Bake the Gratin
Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly and the potatoes are fork-tender. - Rest & Serve
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Cheesy Potato Gratin Casserole
Golden, cheesy layers of tender potatoes baked with cream, garlic, and three cheeses, making the perfect comforting side dish.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes. Stir in cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer 3–4 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Arrange half of the potato slices in the dish. Pour half of the cream mixture and sprinkle with half of the cheeses.
- Repeat with remaining potatoes, cream mixture, and cheeses.
- Cover with foil and bake 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes after baking. Assemble ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Tips for the Perfect Gratin
- Slice Evenly – Use a mandoline for thin, uniform slices.
- Cheese Choices – Gruyère melts beautifully, but you can mix in mozzarella, fontina, or provolone.
- Add Protein – Crispy bacon or leftover ham turns this into a main dish.
- Make It Ahead – Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
