Sweet Potato Gratin with Fresh Herbs
This Sweet Potato Gratin with Fresh Herbs is a comforting French-inspired dish that brings a deliciously creamy texture to your dinner table. A perfect combination of sweet potatoes, fresh herbs, and a luscious cream and cheese sauce, this gratin offers a flavor profile that is both savory and aromatic. The earthy sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the richness of the cream and butter, while the fresh herbs add an uplifting burst of flavor. The gratin is baked to perfection with a golden, crispy top that is irresistible. Whether for a weekend dinner, a holiday gathering, or a cozy meal with loved ones, this gratin is sure to impress!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sweet Potatoes (cleaned & sliced) | 5-6 medium-sized |
| Fresh Cream | 1 1/2 cups |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Butter (softened) | 3-4 tablespoons |
| Garlic (cut in half) | 1 clove |
| Nutmeg (grated) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Parsley Leaves (chopped) | 2 sprigs |
| Fresh Thyme Leaves (chopped) | 2 sprigs |
| Dried Oregano (chopped) | 2 sprigs |
| Fresh Basil Leaves | 2 leaves |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Cheese (Gruyere or Cheddar, shredded) | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 325 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugars | 7 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Cholesterol | 60 mg |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
| Potassium | 850 mg |
Preparation Time
| Time | Amount |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 11 minutes |
| Cook Time | 60 minutes |
| Total Time | 71 minutes |
Servings
| Servings | 4 servings |
Cuisine
| Cuisine Type | French |
Course
| Course | Dinner |
Diet
| Diet Type | Vegetarian |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven & Dish
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). To prepare the baking dish, rub a 7-inch baking dish with the cut side of the garlic clove to infuse a subtle garlic flavor into the dish. Then, grease the dish generously with softened butter.
Step 2: Layer the Sweet Potatoes
Arrange the first layer of sweet potato slices at the bottom of the greased dish. Dab each slice with a small amount of butter to keep them moist during baking. Sprinkle the layer with salt, black pepper, and a selection of the fresh herbs—parsley, thyme, oregano, and basil. The herbs will bring out the flavors of the sweet potatoes and add a beautiful aroma to the dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Mixture
In a small jar or mixing bowl, whisk together the fresh cream, milk, and grated nutmeg until well combined. The cream mixture will create a rich, flavorful sauce that will absorb into the sweet potato layers as they bake.
Step 4: Layer and Repeat
Pour a portion of the prepared cream mixture over the sweet potato slices. Then, add another layer of sweet potato slices, following the same process of dabbing with butter, seasoning with salt, pepper, and herbs, and drizzling more of the cream mixture over the top. Continue layering the sweet potatoes and the cream mixture, ensuring the final layer is topped with the remaining cream mixture.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the top layer of the gratin with the shredded cheese (Gruyere or Cheddar are both excellent choices for this dish). The cheese will melt into a golden, bubbly crust, enhancing the overall texture and flavor.
Step 6: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the sweet potato slices are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The top should be golden and crispy, with the cheese fully melted and slightly browned.
Step 7: Serve
Once baked, remove the gratin from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. The Sweet Potato Gratin with Fresh Herbs is perfect for serving alongside other main courses, or as a standalone vegetarian dish. For a special treat, pair it with a refreshing Watermelon Cranberry Mocktail or a citrusy Orange Mocktail for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations
- Cheese Substitutes: You can experiment with different cheeses, such as Parmesan for a sharper flavor or Fontina for extra creaminess. Gruyere and cheddar are traditional, but feel free to get creative!
- Herb Variations: In addition to thyme, oregano, and parsley, try adding fresh rosemary or sage for an aromatic twist.
- Make-Ahead Option: This gratin can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and cook as directed.
- Topping Twist: For added texture and flavor, top the gratin with panko breadcrumbs or a mixture of breadcrumbs and melted butter before baking.
Pairing Suggestions
This Sweet Potato Gratin with Fresh Herbs pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, particularly roast chicken, grilled vegetables, or a light salad. The creamy texture of the gratin complements the rich, savory flavors of meats, while its subtle sweetness balances well with tangy or herbed sides.
For a more indulgent meal, serve the gratin as a main dish with a crisp white wine or a light red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or a Chardonnay. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of lime can offer a refreshing contrast.
With its blend of rich flavors and comforting textures, Sweet Potato Gratin with Fresh Herbs is an ideal dish to elevate your dinner table. Enjoy it for a cozy night in or as a show-stopping side at your next dinner party.
