Golden, bubbling, and irresistibly cheesy, this Crispy Parmesan and Gruyere Potato Gratin is the kind of side dish that might just steal the show. Each thinly sliced potato is layered with a velvety garlic cream sauce, then blanketed with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan and nutty Gruyere. Once baked to perfection, the top turns crisp and golden while the interior stays tender and creamy.


Whether you’re prepping for a holiday feast or elevating a cozy weeknight dinner, this gratin is the perfect blend of indulgence and comfort. It pairs beautifully with everything from roast chicken to a hearty steak or even served solo with a crisp green salad.
What Kind of Potatoes Work Best for Gratin?
For the creamiest texture with just the right bite, choose starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds. These types hold up well during baking, soaking up the garlicky cream while still keeping their shape.
Ingredients for the Crispy Parmesan and Gruyere Potato Gratin
- Potatoes: The heart of this dish. Choose starchy ones like Yukon Gold or Russet for their tender texture.
- Heavy cream: Creates the luxurious, creamy base that coats each slice.
- Garlic: Infuses every bite with a subtle warmth and depth.
- Parmesan cheese: Brings sharp, salty richness to the top and between the layers.
- Gruyere cheese: Melts beautifully with a nutty finish, ideal for that gooey interior.
- Butter: Helps with browning and enhances flavor.
- Fresh thyme: Adds a fragrant earthy note that balances the richness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for drawing out the flavors.
How To Make the Crispy Parmesan and Gruyere Potato Gratin
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a baking dish generously and set it aside.
Step 2: Slice the Potatoes
Using a mandoline or sharp knife, thinly slice the potatoes to about 1/8 inch thick. Uniform slices ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a few thyme sprigs. Heat gently until warm and fragrant (do not boil). Remove thyme before using.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Arrange a layer of potatoes on the bottom of the dish. Pour over a bit of the warm cream sauce, sprinkle with a mix of Parmesan and Gruyere. Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, finishing with a cheese topping.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for 20 more minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes slicing easier.

How to Serve and Store Crispy Parmesan and Gruyere Potato Gratin
Serve this gratin warm right out of the oven, when the cheese is perfectly melted and the top is crisp. It’s an excellent choice for dinner parties, family holidays, or cozy Sunday meals.
Store any leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy top, or microwave in a pinch.
What to Serve With Crispy Parmesan and Gruyere Potato Gratin?
Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken
A rustic pairing that lets both the meat and gratin shine.
Garlic Butter Steak
Rich meat and creamy potatoes make for a comforting combo.
Lemon-Glazed Carrots
A fresh, sweet contrast to the dish’s richness.
Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
The tangy bite of Brussels cuts through the creaminess perfectly.
Simple Green Salad with Dijon Vinaigrette
Lightens up the plate and balances textures.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
For a cozy meal, serve alongside this warm bowl of flavor.
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy
Pairs delightfully with the layers of cheesy potato goodness (link).
Want More Potato Side Ideas?
If you’re loving this gratin, you’re in good company. Here are more potato dishes worth a spot on your table:
- Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes: A nostalgic comfort with a creamy twist.
- Parmesan Baked Potatoes: Crisped to perfection with a savory cheese crust.
- Oven Roasted Smoked Sausage Potatoes: Hearty and smoky, perfect for weeknights.
- Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: Layers of cheese and potatoes in creamy harmony.
- Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes: A sweet and savory option with earthy herbs.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of truffle oil or a layer of caramelized onions? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.
Crispy Parmesan and Gruyere Potato Gratin
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ready to turn simple potatoes into a dish that earns applause? This Crispy Parmesan and Gruyere Potato Gratin is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet edge. Thinly sliced potatoes soak in garlic-infused cream and are baked under layers of melty Gruyere and crisp Parmesan until golden perfection. This crowd-pleaser is perfect for holiday spreads, easy dinner sides, or those moments when only something rich and cheesy will do. It’s one of the most versatile and impressive food ideas you’ll want on repeat—whether you’re planning a cozy night in or need a winning easy dinner option. From breakfast ideas to a decadent dinner side, this easy recipe has you covered.
Ingredients
2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
2 cups heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
2 tablespoons butter, for greasing
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
2. Slice potatoes thinly (about 1/8-inch thick) using a mandoline or sharp knife.
3. In a saucepan, warm the heavy cream with garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Do not boil. Remove thyme sprigs before using.
4. Layer potatoes in the dish. Pour some cream over each layer and sprinkle with Parmesan and Gruyere. Repeat layers.
5. Top with remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake another 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving to set.
Notes
Use a mandoline for perfectly even slices to ensure even cooking.
Let the gratin rest after baking to help it set and slice cleanly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: potato side dish, cheesy gratin, holiday side, easy recipe
