| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 60 mins – 75 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 560 | 32g | 20g | 52g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 5g | 28g | 0.8g |
It’s easy to fall deeply in love with the recipe of Onion and Potato Gratin. This sumptuous dish holds a special place in the country kitchen of my Rocky Mountain home. It serves up a comforting blend of hearty potatoes and subtly sweet onions, enveloped in a creamy, cheese-laden base.
Gourmet Charm of the Gratin
Gratins are a staple in French cuisine, but they’ve found a warm welcome in kitchens around the world—and for a good reason. This Onion and Potato Gratin, with its creamy filling and crispy top layer, evokes the comforts of home with an up-scale twist. It carries that perfect balance, similar to classic potato gratins yet distinct because of its unique blend of savory and sweet elements.
Tasty and traditional, it’s the perfect side dish or main event. Enjoy the gratin alongside a seared trout fillet, another one of my favorite mountain fare. Or, serve it with a lean, flavorful game meat like venison for a truly rustic meal experience.
Nutritional Highlights & Health Benefits
While it might be a dish loaded with indulgence, the Onion and Potato Gratin packs hidden health boosts, owing to its key ingredients. Potatoes are an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Together with the onions, they provide powerful antioxidants which help in battling free radicals in the body. It’s a sinfully delicious way to nourish oneself.
Meanwhile, the Gruyere and Parmesan used as a filling and topping offer a decent calcium hit, which is crucial for bone health. Garlic, humble as it may appear, is a nutrient-rich superfood that offers heart health benefits and boosts the body’s immune function.
It does carry a good amount of fat and carbohydrate content, so moderation is key. Pair with a nice, crisp salad to balance out the meal, and you’ve got a wholesome banquet set.
The Magic of Mountain Fare
The Onion and Potato Gratin is deeply reminiscent of the mountain fare I’ve come to adore. On a chilly night in Colorado, there’s nothing quite like taking a yummy, cheesy bite off this nourishing gratin. It’s a truly delicious answer to those seeking satiety and warmth.
Just as Gordon, my partner, often remarks, the best meals are those that fill us with the joy of eating and the comfort of feeling home. For me, our delightful Onion and Potato Gratin embodies this sentiment perfectly.
So whether you’re nestled in a mountain cabin or simply in need of a comforting, hearty meal, give this Onion and Potato Gratin a try. Simple, stylish, and oh-so-satisfying, it brings gourmet charm directly to your table.
What You’ll Need
- 3 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme, fresh or dried
- 3 tablespoons butter, unsalted
- 1.5 cups Gruyere cheese, grated
- 1.5 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for greasing the dish
Method
Step One
Firstly, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Step Two
In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, heavy cream, minced garlic, thyme, and unsalted butter. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is nearly boiling. Remove from the heat.
Step Three
Layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Pour over half of the cream mixture, then layer half of the sliced onions on top. Sprinkle with half of the Gruyere and Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper.
Step Four
Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, onions, and cheese, ending with a final layer of cheese on top. Season once more with salt and pepper.
Step Five
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. After an hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden-brown and crispy.
Step Six
Remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Onion and Potato Gratin!
