Sweet Potato Gratin for Two

Name: Sweet Potato Gratin for Two
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese; 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese; 1 garlic clove, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Plate Creations

I absolutely love making Sweet Potato Gratin, especially when I want to indulge in a rich yet comforting dish. The natural sweetness of the potatoes combined with creamy layers of cheese creates a delightful experience for the taste buds. This recipe is perfect for sharing, and it’s surprisingly simple to whip up! By using just a few ingredients, I can create a dish that feels indulgent without too much fuss, making it ideal for romantic dinners or cozy nights in.

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-01-10T02:01:10.977Z

When I first tried making Sweet Potato Gratin, I was amazed at how the creamy layers meld together beautifully. I learned that par-boiling the sweet potatoes beforehand enhances their texture and ensures that everything cooks evenly. In addition, I experimented with different cheeses and settled on a mixture of Gruyère and cheddar, which added a wonderful depth of flavor.

One key tip I discovered is to let the gratin rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This allows the layers to set just enough to make serving a breeze, while the remaining heat keeps it deliciously warm. It’s a perfect dish to impress someone special or just to treat myself!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Comforting and creamy with a hint of sweetness
Easy to prepare for a cozy dinner for two
Great for impressing guests or date nights

      

Understanding Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are the star of this gratin, and choosing the right variety can enhance your dish significantly. I prefer using orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for their natural sweetness and creamy texture. However, you can also use purple or white-fleshed varieties if you’re looking for a different flavor profile. Each type brings a unique taste, so feel free to experiment based on your preference!

When slicing your sweet potatoes, aim for uniform thickness—about 1/8 inch is ideal. This will ensure that they cook evenly, allowing for a tender and creamy bite in every layer. An adjustable mandoline slicer can be a great tool for achieving consistent slices, but a sharp knife will also work well if you prefer to slice by hand.

Cheese Selection Tips

The cheeses you choose can dramatically affect the richness and flavor profile of your gratin. Gruyère cheese is a classic choice; it melts beautifully and has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly. If you're looking for a little extra tang, consider mixing in some Fontina or even a bit of goat cheese for a unique twist.

For those avoiding dairy or seeking a lighter option, you could substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream although this will alter the flavor slightly. To maintain the creamy texture, make sure to use a full-fat variant of your dairy alternative. Also, try to choose a cheese that melts well to create that indulgent topping.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the best parts about this Sweet Potato Gratin is how easily it can be made ahead of time. You can assemble all the layers and cover the baking dish with foil, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you are ready to enjoy it, simply pop it into the preheated oven; you may need to increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes since it will start off cold from the fridge.

Leftovers will also keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat the gratin in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. If you find it has dried out, you can add a splash of cream to revive the creaminess while reheating.

Ingredients

For the Gratin

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Make sure to layer the ingredients evenly for the best flavor.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare Sweet Potatoes

In a pot of boiling water, par-boil the sliced sweet potatoes for about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and half of the Gruyère cheese.

Assemble the Gratin

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sweet potato slices, sprinkle with thyme if using, and pour half of the cream mixture over them. Repeat with the remaining sweet potatoes and cream mixture. Top with remaining cheese.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Rest and Serve

Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Sweet Potato Gratin!

Serve warm and enjoy every forkful!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some cooked bacon or crispy shallots on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet Potato Gratin is versatile enough to serve alongside various proteins. It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or grilled steaks, enhancing a cozy meal with hearty flavors. The creamy aspect of the dish also works nicely with lighter dishes like a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables, bringing balance to your plate.

Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds on top of the gratin just before serving for an extra crunch. A dash of smoked paprika or chili flakes can also elevate the dish by providing a hint of heat that contrasts beautifully with the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this gratin to suit your taste! Adding layers of sautéed spinach or kale can enhance the nutrition while introducing a lovely color contrast. For added depth, you might consider roasting the sweet potatoes first for 15-20 minutes until slightly caramelized before layering them in the dish; this will amplify their sweetness.

If you’re preparing this dish for a special occasion, adding a drizzle of truffle oil just before serving can infuse an elegant, earthy flavor that impresses. You could also experiment with herbs; rosemary or sage would lend a delightful aroma.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gratin a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bake it the day of serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative, but it may alter the richness.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the gratin?

Absolutely! Thinly sliced leeks or spinach work wonderfully and complement the sweet potatoes.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.