Cheesy Potato Gratin

Featured in Meatless meals that satisfy.

Thin sweet potato slices baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Topped with bubbling, golden cheese, this dish is an excellent addition to holidays or fancy meals.

alicia in the kitchen
Updated on Mon, 19 May 2025 12:45:44 GMT
A creamy baked dish of sweet potato layers garnished with fresh thyme. Pin it
A creamy baked dish of sweet potato layers garnished with fresh thyme. | tasteofsavor.com

Every time I whip up this Sweet Potato Gratin, my whole place smells amazing. Those soft layers of sweet potato get all cozy with a creamy sauce loaded with herbs, and the cheesy top is just begging you to dive in. Anytime I bring this to a potluck, there's nothing left but the empty dish. With the mix of thyme, garlic, and rosemary, this is comfort on a plate.

Irresistible Sweet Potato Gratin

I've baked a ton of gratins, and honestly, this one's a standout. The creamy white sauce wraps every bit of sweet potato, and those herbs just kick the flavor up a notch. Watching everyone swoop in for seconds and fight for the last bit of the crispy cheese is my favorite part. Best of all, Reynolds Wrap® cuts down cleanup so I can actually relax at the table.

Must-Haves for This Dish

  • Reynolds Wrap® Heavy Duty Foil: Keeps cleanup a breeze every time.
  • Gruyere & Parmesan Cheese: Together, these cheeses bring serious melty goodness.
  • Sweet Potatoes: Go for big orange ones for the silkiest texture.
  • Whole Milk & Cream: That dreamy sauce owes it all to these.
  • Fresh Thyme & Rosemary: Try for fresh—they really brighten things up.
  • Garlic & Shallots: Your kitchen will thank you for these.

Let’s Make It Happen

Pop It In the Oven
Let your gratin bake covered at 350°F for 60 minutes, then take off the foil, scatter more cheese, and broil so the top turns beautifully golden and crisp.
Stack the Layers
Line your pan with foil, pour in some sauce, lay down potato slices, and end by spooning the rest of the sauce over it all.
Get Those Potatoes Ready
Slice your potatoes super thin—about 1/8 inch makes the layers awesome.
Sauce Things Up
Sauté shallots with butter, toss in garlic and herbs, then whisk in a mix of milk and cream plus flour. Melt both cheeses in until it’s rich and velvety.

Best-Kept Tricks

Take your time to get even potato slices. Go for fresh herbs if you've got them, but don’t stress if you only have dried. Press the foil down tight so the sauce stays luscious. Let it chill for around 30 minutes before slicing in. Every once in a while I use straight-up heavy cream. You only live once, right?

Perfect Pairings for Your Gratin

This dish just works with all the big holiday hits—think roast turkey, a glazed ham, even lamb if you’re feeling fancy. A simple salad adds some freshness that really lifts all the rich flavors. Grab a glass of buttery white wine and your meal will feel simply special.

Cheesy layers of orange sweet potatoes baked until bubbly and topped with thyme sprigs. Pin it
Cheesy layers of orange sweet potatoes baked until bubbly and topped with thyme sprigs. | tasteofsavor.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this in advance?

Yes, prepare the sauce and slice the potatoes the day before. Keep them in the fridge separately. Assemble and bake fresh before serving.

→ Why are my potatoes staying tough?

Ensure the slices are around 1/8 inch thick. Bake the dish covered, checking for tenderness. Add extra time if needed until the potatoes are soft.

→ Can I switch the cheeses?

Parmesan and gruyere are ideal, but cheddar or fontina work well too. Choose well-melting cheeses for perfect results.

→ How do I keep the sauce smooth?

Add the milk slowly while whisking on medium heat. Stir constantly and avoid boiling once the cheese is in, keeping it silky.

→ Is it okay to freeze leftovers?

You can freeze it for up to 2 months, though the texture may change slightly. Thaw overnight and rewarm covered in the oven.

Cheesy Potato Gratin

Soft sweet potato layers baked with creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for festive meals or family dinners.

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
60 Minutes
Total Time
90 Minutes
By: Alicia

Category: Vegetarian

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: French

Yield: 8 Servings (1 casserole)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 5-6 medium sweet potatoes.
02 ⅛ tsp nutmeg.
03 1½ cups gruyere cheese.
04 1½ cups parmesan cheese.
05 ½ tsp black or white pepper.
06 1½ tsp sea salt.
07 3 tbsp all-purpose flour.
08 3 tbsp butter.
09 1 tbsp fresh rosemary.
10 6 minced garlic cloves.
11 1 tbsp fresh thyme.
12 2 large diced shallots.
13 2 cups whole milk.
14 1 cup heavy cream.
15 Sturdy aluminum foil.

Instructions

Step 01

Set your oven to 350°F and get your baking dish ready by lining it with foil.

Step 02

Melt the butter and soften the shallots in it. Toss in minced garlic and herbs, cooking briefly. Sprinkle the flour in, stir, and let it cook for a moment. Slowly whisk in milk until it thickens. Pour in the cream, add seasonings, and toss in 1 cup each of the cheeses. Keep it warm.

Step 03

Peel sweet potatoes and cut them into thin, 1/8-inch slices. Keep them stacked neatly for easier layering.

Step 04

Pour half the prepared sauce into the dish. Fan the sweet potato slices in even layers, then cover with the rest of the sauce. Wrap tightly with foil on top.

Step 05

Bake for 60 to 75 minutes or until the potatoes are soft. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top and broil for 5-8 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let it cool for about half an hour before serving.

Notes

  1. Ideal side for festive meals.
  2. Goes great with roasted dishes.
  3. You can prep parts of it ahead of time.
  4. Inspired by classic French methods.

Tools You'll Need

  • Sharp mandolin slicer.
  • Sauté pan (large).
  • Dish for layering and baking.
  • Sturdy whisk.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (milk, cream, cheeses, butter).
  • Contains wheat flour.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 522
  • Total Fat: 30 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 44 g
  • Protein: 19 g