Imagine a dish so creamy, so decadent, that it transforms ordinary potatoes into a culinary masterpiece that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds. This Sage and Cheddar Potato Gratin is not just a side dish – it's a journey of rich, herbaceous flavors and luxurious textures that will elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. With golden, crispy edges, a tender potato interior, and a symphony of sage and sharp cheddar, this French-inspired gratin is about to become your new favorite comfort food sensation.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously butter a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Wash and thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline or sharp knife, aiming for uniform slices approximately 1/8 inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, chopped fresh sage, salt, and freshly ground black pepper, whisking together to create a seasoned cream mixture.
- Layer the potato slices in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping each slice to create an even, compact arrangement.
- Pour the sage-infused cream mixture evenly over the layered potatoes, ensuring all potato slices are coated and moistened.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the potato layers, covering the surface completely.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to allow potatoes to become tender.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and cheese is bubbling and slightly crisp.
- Remove from oven and let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set and cool slightly.
- Garnish with additional fresh sage leaves and serve hot as a delicious side dish or accompaniment.
Tips
- Slice Consistency is Key: Use a mandoline or a very sharp knife to ensure uniform potato slices. Consistent thickness guarantees even cooking and a beautiful layered presentation.
- Cream Temperature Matters: Let your heavy cream come to room temperature before mixing with herbs to help the flavors meld more effectively.
- Cheese Selection: Choose a high-quality, sharp cheddar for maximum flavor impact. Aged cheddars provide a more intense taste profile.
- Don't Rush the Baking: The slow, covered baking allows potatoes to become perfectly tender, while the uncovered final stage creates that irresistible golden, crispy top.
- Resting is Crucial: Always let the gratin rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes serving much easier.
- Herb Freshness: Use fresh sage if possible – it makes a significant difference in the overall flavor compared to dried herbs.
- Prevent Sticking: Generously buttering your baking dish ensures easy serving and a beautiful presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 70mg
