Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin
Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin is a delightful dish that showcases the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes married with the tartness of cranberries. This comforting gratin not only makes for a hearty side dish but also holds its own as a main attraction at your dinner table. With its golden cheese topping and warm, inviting aroma, it’s a perfect addition to any festive gathering or family meal.
Why make this recipe
This recipe stands out for its unique combination of flavors and textures. Sweet potatoes offer a creamy base that pairs beautifully with the burst of tartness from cranberries, while the Gruyère cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor and luxurious texture. It’s an excellent way to elevate your usual side dish routine and impress your guests. Plus, it’s relatively simple to make, requiring just a few steps to achieve a restaurant-quality result.
How to make Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (or dried cranberries)
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, layer half of the sliced sweet potatoes on the bottom.
- Sprinkle half of the cranberries over the sweet potatoes, then half of the Gruyère cheese.
- Repeat the layering with the remaining sweet potatoes, cranberries, and cheese.
- In a bowl, mix heavy cream, salt, and pepper, then pour over the layered ingredients.
- In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter.
- Spread the breadcrumb mixture on top of the gratin.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.
How to serve Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin
Serve Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin hot, straight from the oven, to showcase its bubbly, golden top. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian feast. For an added touch, garnish each serving with fresh thyme leaves to enhance both flavor and presentation.
How to store Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin
Leftover gratin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.
Tips to make Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin
- For a creamier texture, consider adding a touch of garlic or shallots to the heavy cream mixture.
- Experiment with different types of cheese if desired; fontina or cheddar can also deliver delightful results.
- If you prefer a sweeter version, drizzle a bit of maple syrup over the layers before baking.
Variation
For a twist on the classic recipe, try incorporating nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch, or replace cranberries with sliced apples for a more autumn-inspired touch.
