Creamy Smashed Potato Gratin (Printable)

Golden smashed potatoes layered with rich cream, melted cheese, and fragrant herbs for a savory side.

# What You'll 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 grated Gruyère cheese
10 - 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
11 - 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Garnish

12 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley, chopped

# How to Make It:

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 let 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 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 until bubbly and golden brown on top.
09 - Let rest for 10 minutes before garnishing with fresh herbs and serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Texture Contrast: You get the best of both worlds—crispy, golden potato edges and a velvety, creamy center.
  • Triple Cheese Bliss: The combination of Gruyère, mozzarella, and Parmesan offers depth, stretch, and a perfect crust.
  • Infused Aromatics: Fresh thyme, rosemary, and a hint of nutmeg create a complex fragrance that permeates every bite.
02 -
  • Resting Time: Do not skip the 10-minute rest after baking; it allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to settle.
  • Cheese Check: If using pre-shredded cheese, ensure it doesn't have too much anti-caking agent, or shred it yourself for a smoother melt.
  • Parchment Paper: Always use parchment paper on your baking sheet during the roasting phase to prevent the crispy potato skins from sticking.
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