| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 1 hr 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 450 | 32g | 20g | 30g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 4g | 3g | 10g | 1.2g |
When I first thought about creating a recipe that combined the delicate sweetness of Cipollini onions with the hearty bite of Yukon Gold potatoes, I knew it had to be something special. That’s how Cipollini Onions and Potatoes Au Gratin came to life in my kitchen. This recipe is a cozy, heartwarming dish that brings back memories of family dinners and Sunday potlucks from my days growing up in Nebraska. The rich combination of creamy Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses, paired with the earthy flavors of fresh thyme and nutmeg, makes this dish irresistible.
Health Benefits to Enjoy
Not only does this dish taste divine, but it also offers some surprising health benefits. Cipollini onions are an excellent source of Vitamin C, which is essential for boosting your immune system. Yukon Gold potatoes, on the other hand, provide a good amount of potassium—a mineral that helps balance fluids and electrolytes in the body. While the heavy cream and cheese do add some richness, this recipe balances indulgence with the nutritional benefits of these root vegetables.
Complementary Dishes
This Cipollini Onions and Potatoes Au Gratin pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Try serving it alongside roast chicken or a juicy steak for a truly memorable meal. It’s also a fantastic side dish for special occasions, complementing anything from a holiday ham to a simple grilled fish. The creamy, cheesy layers would echo the flavors of dishes like classic Potato Gratin or Scalloped Potatoes, making it versatile enough for both casual dinners and formal gatherings.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad will balance out the rich, creamy textures of this gratin, creating a well-rounded meal.
Ultimately, this recipe is about bringing people together. Just as I’ve experienced in my journey from the heartland to your kitchens, this Cipollini Onions and Potatoes Au Gratin is designed to be a dish that celebrates comfort, family, and the joy of a home-cooked meal.
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb Cipollini onions, peeled and sliced
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter to prevent the gratin from sticking.
Step Two
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced Cipollini onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and lightly caramelized, about 10-12 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step Three
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, fresh thyme leaves, salt, black pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once it starts to simmer, remove it from the heat.
Step Four
In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes evenly across the bottom. Spread half of the caramelized onions and garlic mixture over the potatoes. Sprinkle half of the grated Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses over the onions.
Step Five
Pour half of the cream mixture evenly over the first layer. Then, repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onion mixture, and cheeses. Pour the remaining cream mixture over the top.
Step Six
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step Seven
Allow the Cipollini Onions and Potatoes Au Gratin to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help the dish to set and make it easier to serve. Enjoy!
