Cheesy and Easy Gratin Dauphinois
Or in English... Gratin Dauphinois is Thinly Sliced Cheesy Baked Potatoes in Milk & Cream
The name sounds incredibly fancy, but Gratin Dauphinois is just thinly sliced potatoes cooked in milk & cream and baked in the oven. I (and many others) add cheese — because cheesy potatoes are never a bad idea. Traditionally people like to add Gruyère, and while it's also my go-to cheese for this dish, I've made it with Gouda and Edam (or any other hard yellow cheese or cheese blend) and the result was great! If you have some leftover potatoes, you can always consider making one of these yummy recipes: oven baked crushed potatoes or croquettes.Method
- 1
Cutting and Seasoning the Potatoes· 5-15 Minutes
Peel the potatoes and thinly slice them (0.1 inch / 0.3mm) in a mandoline, food processor or by hand if you find it relaxing like I do. In a bowl or a pot season the potatoes very well with salt and pepper. Don't be afraid to put more than usual the amount of pepper because this recipe just loves pepper! (Make sure the potatoes are dry before you season them).
- 2
Cooking the potatoes in Milk and Cream· 15 Minutes
Add all the sliced potatoes to a big pot, add cream and milk to cover completely. Add 2 chopped garlic cloves (before chopping the garlic cut one clove to half and rub the baking dish with it) and cook on medium heat for 15 minutes. The potatoes should be cooked 2/3 so make an effort to undercook them. Some tips: 1. The cream is a must! 2. If you want to use Half&Half instead of heavy cream that's an option. In that case use only cream with no milk. 3. Whole milk is always better than skim milk but the two will work. Don't use fat-free milk
- 3
Baking the Gratin· 30-35 Minutes
With a slotted spoon remove the potatoes from pot and arrange them in the baking dish (Pyrex or Ceramic work fine). Sprinkle the grated cheese each time you add more potatoes but don't forget to leave some for garnishing. Pour the Cream & Milk mix on top of the potatoes. If there's too much liquid you don't have to use it all. Bake for 30-35 minutes on 350F (180C). Depending on the oven you might have to use the grill function in the last 5 minutes to make it brown. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes! This is an amazing side dish to beef stew, grilled chicken and more. Enjoy!
Jaron Kimhi
Jaron Kimhi — self-taught home cook from Tel Aviv, writing and cooking every recipe on this site himself. 20+ years of tinkering in the kitchen, leaning toward slow cooking, classic technique, and honest ingredients.
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