🥔 Why This Brie Potato Gratin Deserves a Spot on Your Holiday Table
Let me just say this—this Brie Potato Gratin isn’t just a side dish. It’s the side dish. It’s the cozy, cheesy, garlicky kind of comfort food that makes you want to hug your plate. I make it every single year, especially around the holidays, and it always disappears way too fast!
What makes it special? Creamy layers of ultra-thin potatoes, melted brie, sharp cheddar, a hint of garlic, and the earthy flavor of thyme. It’s indulgent without being overwhelming, fancy without being fussy. And the best part? You can prep it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven before guests arrive. Win-win.
🧄 Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe yields 3 individual gratins, but you can absolutely scale it up for a big dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 450g potatoes – waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Charlotte work best
- 25cl heavy cream – the base of that rich, silky sauce
- 25cl whole milk – helps balance the richness
- 1 garlic clove, minced – adds savory depth
- 4g dried thyme – earthy and fragrant
- Salt & pepper – to season each layer
- ½ wheel of brie – creamy, melty, luxurious
- 6 tbsp grated cheddar cheese – for a crispy, golden top
- A small knob of butter – to grease the ramekins
Optional but delicious: a sprinkle of nutmeg in the cream for added warmth!
🔪 How to Make the Creamiest Brie Potato Gratin
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Wash, peel (if you prefer), and slice your potatoes as thinly as possible. A mandoline slicer works great here. Thin slices = tender layers that melt in your mouth. Set them aside.
Step 2: Make the Cream Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream, milk, minced garlic, thyme, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it up and set aside — this is the magical mixture that will infuse your potatoes with creamy, herby flavor.
Step 3: Layer the Gratins
Butter your ramekins (or a large baking dish if you’re going family-style). Begin layering:
- Add a layer of potato slices to the bottom.
- Top with small chunks of brie.
- Pour a spoonful or two of the cream mixture.
- Repeat the layers until the ramekins are full, finishing with cream on top.
Finally, sprinkle a tablespoon or two of grated cheddar on each ramekin. The cheddar creates that irresistible golden, bubbly crust!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the ramekins on a baking tray and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife slides easily through the potatoes.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This Brie Potato Gratin is perfect alongside:
- Roast chicken or beef tenderloin
- Holiday hams and stuffed turkey
- Crispy green beans or balsamic roasted carrots
Or hey — just grab a spoon and call it dinner. No judgment here!
🥶 Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
This recipe is a host’s dream because you can totally prepare it ahead.
To make ahead:
Assemble the gratins (without baking), cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let them come to room temperature and follow the usual baking instructions.
Leftovers?
Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat at 180°C until warmed through.
💡 Keira’s Tips for Potato Gratin Perfection
- Use a mandoline for ultra-thin slices. It makes a difference!
- Layer and season well. Don’t skimp on salt or cream between layers — every bite should be flavorful.
- Let it rest. Just like lasagna, this gratin sets beautifully if you give it 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Add a twist. A pinch of nutmeg, caramelized onions, or even pancetta would take it up a notch.
👩🍳 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use another cheese instead of brie?
Absolutely. Camembert, raclette, or even taleggio would all be melty and fabulous. But brie has that creamy edge that just melts into the potatoes perfectly.
Q: What’s the best potato variety to use?
Go for waxy or all-purpose potatoes like Yukon Gold, Charlotte, or Red Bliss. Avoid starchy ones like Russets—they’ll fall apart.
Q: Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
You bet! Just scale up the ingredients and use a larger casserole dish. Baking time may increase slightly—look for that golden top and soft center.
✨ Final Thoughts: The Cheesy Gratins You’ll Dream About
This Brie Potato Gratin is the kind of dish that brings people back for seconds (and thirds). It’s simple to make but tastes like something you’d order at a cozy French bistro during the holidays. The combination of creamy brie, tender potatoes, and that cheesy golden top is just unbeatable.
Whether you serve it for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or a cozy Sunday dinner — it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
📌 Don’t Forget to Pin, Save, or Share!
If you try this recipe, drop a comment or tag me on social — I love seeing your kitchen magic! 💛
And if you’re planning your holiday menu, this is one recipe you need to bookmark.