Few side dishes deliver as much comfort and holiday charm as a Cheese Herb Potato Gratin. This golden, bubbling casserole layers thinly sliced potatoes with cream, herbs, and melty cheese, creating a deeply satisfying dish perfect for Christmas dinner—or any festive feast. With its rich flavor and elegant presentation, potato gratin makes for a standout side that complements everything from roasted turkey to glazed ham.
Why Potato Gratin Belongs on the Holiday Table
Gratin is the definition of cozy holiday food. The tender slices of potatoes absorb decadent cream and cheese, while fresh herbs add brightness and aroma. Once baked, the top caramelizes into a beautiful golden crust that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. What makes this dish special is its versatility: you can prepare it ahead of time, choose your favorite cheeses, and even vary the herbs to suit your menu.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère or cheddar cheese (or a mix)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
- In a small saucepan, heat the cream with garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper until warm, but do not boil.
- Arrange a single layer of potato slices in the baking dish, followed by a light sprinkle of Gruyère and Parmesan.
- Continue layering potatoes and cheese until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Pour the warm cream mixture evenly over the layers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to set.
Serving Suggestions
Cheese Herb Potato Gratin pairs beautifully with holiday main courses like roasted beef, baked chicken, or even vegetarian spreads. Garnish the dish with extra fresh herbs before serving for a pop of color. Its creamy texture and savory flavor profile make it a crowd-pleaser, especially during the holidays when comfort food is a must. It’s also a perfect make-ahead dish—just prep it the day before, refrigerate, and bake fresh when needed.
With its layers of tender potatoes, luscious cream, and fragrant herbs, this gratin is a festive side dish that will steal the spotlight on your Christmas table.