Creamy French Gratin Dauphinois – Cozy Comfort Food
Ron Adelaar adapted by JojoM
Melt-in-your-mouth French gratin dauphinois made with tender potatoes, garlic, cream, and thyme. A cozy, golden-baked comfort dish perfect for family dinners.
Creamy French Gratin Dauphinois – Cozy Comfort Food 🥔🥘
Few dishes capture the essence of French comfort food quite like Gratin Dauphinois. Layers of tender potatoes baked in a luscious mix of cream, garlic, and thyme create a dish that’s both rustic and elegant. Golden on top and meltingly soft inside, this creamy potato gratin is the ultimate side dish for cozy dinners or festive gatherings. ✨
What Makes Gratin Dauphinois Special? 🇫🇷
Unlike other potato bakes, gratin dauphinois is a French classic that traditionally avoids cheese in the layers. Instead, it relies on the richness of cream, milk, and butter, infused with garlic and fresh thyme, to deliver that luxurious melt-in-your-mouth texture. Of course, if you love a golden cheesy crust, you can sprinkle some grated cheese on top before finishing under the grill. 🧀
Tips for the Perfect Potato Gratin 🔑
- Choose the right potatoes: Firm and waxy varieties like Charlotte, Amandine, or Monalisa work best since they hold their shape after baking.
- Slice evenly: Use a mandoline for thin (2–3 mm) slices to ensure even cooking.
- Let it rest: After baking, allow the gratin to rest for 5–10 minutes so the creamy layers set beautifully.
Serving Ideas 🍽️
This creamy French potato gratin pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, grilled meats, or even a simple green salad. It’s a versatile side dish that elevates any meal into a comforting French-inspired feast. For holidays or Sunday dinners, it’s guaranteed to impress.
A Bite of Cocooning Bliss 🌟
Whether you enjoy it as a vegetarian centerpiece or a decadent side dish, this Gratin Dauphinois brings that feeling of cozy indulgence straight to your table. Each forkful is creamy, garlicky, and infused with the aroma of thyme—pure comfort in every bite.
So next time you crave something warming and elegant, try this recipe and bring the spirit of French home cooking to your kitchen. 🥂🇫🇷
Creamy French Gratin Dauphinois – Cozy Comfort Food
Ron Adelaar adapted by JojoMMelt-in-your-mouth French gratin dauphinois made with tender potatoes, garlic, cream, and thyme. A cozy, golden-baked comfort dish perfect for family dinners.
Chef's Tips
Use firm potatoes like Amandine, Charlotte, or Monalisa for best texture.
Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving for layers to hold together.
Add grated cheese before grilling for extra golden crust.
Tools Used
Mandoline Slicer
Oven
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Ingredients
Gratin Dauphinois
Instructions
Prepare Potatoes
- 1
Peel potatoes and slice thinly (2–3 mm) using a mandoline if possible.
Make Cream Mixture
- 1
In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, crème fraîche, butter, garlic, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- 2
Heat gently until just simmering, then remove from heat.
Assemble & Bake
- 1
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- 2
Butter a casserole dish generously.
- 3
Layer potato slices evenly, pour cream mixture over each layer until all are used.
- 4
Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- 5
Uncover, sprinkle with cheese if desired, and grill 5–10 minutes until golden.
- 6
Rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Comments & Reviews
Sophie L.
9/8/2025
So rich and comforting, just like in France! My family devoured it.
Marco D.
9/10/2025
Made it last night—perfect creamy texture and the thyme was a great touch.
Elise P.
9/12/2025
I added cheese on top before grilling, turned out golden and delicious.
James K.
9/13/2025
Great recipe, though I reduced the cream a little for a lighter version.
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 portion (about 250 g)
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
