Caramelized Leek Potato Gratin

Name: Caramelized Leek Potato Gratin
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced; 3 leeks, cleaned and sliced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the creamy and savory goodness of Caramelized Leek Potato Gratin, a perfect side dish that elevates any meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-29T18:30:27.859Z

This Caramelized Leek Potato Gratin is not just a side dish; it's a celebration of flavors. The sweetness of caramelized leeks pairs beautifully with creamy potatoes, making it a delightful addition to any gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy layers of potatoes with a rich, savory flavor
Sweet, caramelized leeks add depth and sweetness
Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner

      

The Perfect Side Dish

Caramelized Leek Potato Gratin is not just a dish; it's an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this gratin is the ideal companion to any meal. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a stand-out choice that will leave your guests asking for seconds.

The combination of thinly sliced potatoes and sweet, caramelized leeks creates a delightful harmony of textures and tastes. As the layers bake together, they meld into a cohesive dish that is both satisfying and indulgent. This gratin is versatile enough to pair with a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to hearty vegetarian options.

Ingredient Highlights

The star of this gratin is undoubtedly the leeks. Often overlooked, leeks offer a subtle sweetness and a mild onion flavor that enhances the overall dish. When caramelized, they develop a rich, complex taste that elevates the gratin and sets it apart from standard potato casseroles.

Gruyère cheese adds a nutty richness that complements the cream and potatoes beautifully. Known for its melting qualities, Gruyère creates a luscious, gooey texture that binds the gratin together. The addition of fresh thyme introduces a fragrant herbal note, rounding out the flavors and making each bite a little taste of heaven.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, ensure that your potatoes are sliced thinly and evenly. This allows them to cook thoroughly and evenly, resulting in a perfectly tender gratin. A mandoline slicer can be a helpful tool for this task, ensuring uniformity in thickness.

Don't rush the caramelization of the leeks. Allowing them to cook slowly will bring out their natural sugars, resulting in a deep, rich flavor that is essential to the dish. If you find that they are browning too quickly, lower the heat to prevent burning and promote even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Gratin

4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
3 leeks, cleaned and sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Leeks

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks, seasoning with a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the leeks are caramelized and golden brown, about 15 minutes.

Layer the Gratin

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Top with half of the caramelized leeks, half of the cream, and half of the Gruyère cheese.

Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

Bake the Gratin

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Caramelized Leek Potato Gratin!

Serving Suggestions

Caramelized Leek Potato Gratin is a flexible side dish that complements a variety of meals. Serve it alongside roasted chicken or beef for a comforting dinner that everyone will love. Its creamy consistency pairs wonderfully with grilled or baked fish, providing a delightful contrast in flavors.

For a vegetarian option, consider pairing the gratin with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. The richness of the gratin will balance perfectly with the freshness of a simple green salad, creating a well-rounded meal that satisfies all palates.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing your Caramelized Leek Potato Gratin is simple. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the gratin in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If the top has lost its crispness, consider broiling it for a couple of minutes to restore that delicious golden crust. This dish can taste just as good the second time around!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Gruyère with other cheeses like cheddar or fontina.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the gratin a day ahead, just bake it right before serving.

→ What can I serve with this gratin?

It pairs well with roasted meats, salads, or as part of a vegetarian meal.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour.