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Baking dish of cheesy potato gratin with bacon and herbs
Jana Rae

Cheesy Potato Gratin

Creamy cheesy potato gratin made with thinly sliced potatoes, cream, and melted cheese. The perfect scalloped potatoes casserole for holidays or cozy family dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ½ pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Gruyère for richer flavor
  • ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon thyme fresh or dried
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup cooked bacon or ham chopped (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven – Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Sauté aromatics – In a skillet, melt butter. Sauté onion and garlic until softened and fragrant.
  3. Make the cream sauce – Stir in cream, milk, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
  4. Layer potatoes – Place half the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Pour half the cream sauce over. Sprinkle with half the cheddar and parmesan. Repeat with remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese.
  5. Add toppings – Sprinkle cooked bacon or ham on top if desired.
  6. Bake – Cover with foil and bake 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  7. Serve – Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.

Notes

  • Cheese swaps: Try Gruyère, Swiss, or mozzarella for different flavors.
  • Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, then bake before serving.
  • Storage: Refrigerates 3–4 days. Reheat in oven for best texture.
  • Extra crispy top: Broil 2–3 minutes at the end.