Creamy, cheesy, and melt-in-your-mouth soft—this French side dish is the ultimate comfort bake.

If you love creamy baked potatoes with golden edges and rich, garlicky flavor, then Gratin Dauphinois is a dish you need in your comfort food rotation. This traditional French potato bake layers thinly sliced potatoes in a mixture of cream, milk, and garlic, baked until tender and irresistibly golden. It’s perfect as a side dish or luxurious vegetarian main.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Rich and elegant yet simple
• Pairs with any roast, steak, or veggies
• Oven-baked and hands-off once assembled
• 100% comfort in every bite

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or russets), peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tbsp butter (for greasing)
• 1/2 cup grated Gruyère or Parmesan (optional topping for a more modern version)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan, heat cream, milk, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until warm—do not boil.
3. Layer the potato slices in the dish, slightly overlapping.
4. Pour the warm cream mixture evenly over the potatoes.
5. (Optional) Sprinkle cheese on top.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
8. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips & Substitutions

• Use a mandoline slicer for even, thin slices
• Add caramelized onions or herbs between layers for extra flavor
• Make it ahead—reheats beautifully
• For dairy-free: use plant-based cream and a dairy-free cheese substitute

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warm
• Freezes well in portions—thaw before reheating

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect with roast chicken, steak, or lentil loaf
• Add a crisp green salad to balance the richness
• Serve as a comforting vegetarian main with a glass of white wine

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fiber: 3g

Note: Values vary depending on cheese and cream used.

Did You Try This Recipe?

Tag @comfortdishesofficial and show off your bubbling, golden potato masterpiece—we love seeing your creations!