Creamy Smashed Potato Gratin (Print version)

Golden smashed potatoes baked with cream, cheese, and fresh herbs for a rich and flavorful side.

# What You Need:

→ Potatoes

01 - 3.3 lbs small Yukon Gold or baby potatoes
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Cream Mixture

04 - 1.5 cups heavy cream
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
07 - 0.5 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
08 - 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg

→ Cheeses

09 - 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
10 - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
11 - 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

→ Garnish

12 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley, chopped

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Place whole potatoes in a large pot, cover with salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, approximately 15 to 18 minutes.
03 - Drain potatoes and allow to cool slightly. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet. Use a potato masher or the bottom of a glass to gently smash each potato to approximately 0.5 inch thick.
04 - Drizzle smashed potatoes with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 20 minutes, or until edges are crisp and golden.
05 - In a small saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and nutmeg. Heat gently until just warmed and fragrant; do not boil.
06 - Arrange half the roasted smashed potatoes in a buttered baking dish. Pour over half of the cream mixture and sprinkle with half the Gruyère, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
07 - Layer the remaining potatoes, then top with the rest of the cream and cheeses.
08 - Bake in the oven at 425°F for 20 to 25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
09 - Let rest for 10 minutes before garnishing with fresh herbs and serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The dual texture of crispy potato edges and a rich, creamy center is incredibly satisfying.
  • A triple-cheese blend of Gruyère, mozzarella, and Parmesan offers the perfect balance of melt and sharp flavor.
  • Infused with fresh thyme, rosemary, and a hint of nutmeg for a truly aromatic experience.
  • It is a versatile vegetarian side that elevates roasted meats or stands alone with a fresh salad.
02 -
  • Do not let the cream mixture boil; a gentle warming is sufficient to release the flavors of the garlic and herbs.
  • Patience is key—letting the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking allows the cream sauce to thicken and set properly for serving.
  • Use Yukon Gold or baby potatoes for their naturally buttery flavor and creamy interior texture.
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