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 shredded Gruyère cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first decided to make Sweet Potato Gratin for two, I wanted a dish that was both comforting and impressive. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a rich, creamy sauce, topped with a golden crust. It's the ideal side dish for a romantic dinner or even a cozy night in. The best part? It's deceptively simple to prepare while elevating your meal to something special. I'm excited to share how easy it is to create this dish that packs a flavorful punch!

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:55:10.631Z

I remember the first time I served this Sweet Potato Gratin to a friend. I was nervous, but as soon as the golden crust emerged from the oven, my concerns melted away. The aroma filled my kitchen, and I knew I was onto something special. Each spoonful revealed layers of sweet potatoes intertwined with a creamy, cheesy sauce that makes every bite memorable.

To achieve that perfect texture, I recommend slicing the sweet potatoes as thinly as possible; a mandoline works wonders here. Plus, letting the gratin rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the layers meld beautifully. Trust me, this dish will steal the show every time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of creamy and sweet flavors
Easy to make yet impressively elegant
Great for special occasions or cozy dinners for two

      

Understanding Sweet Potatoes

Selecting the right sweet potatoes is crucial for this gratin. Opt for medium-sized ones that feel firm to the touch and have smooth skin. Varieties such as Beauregard or Garnet are typically sweeter and have a lovely texture when baked. Avoid those with soft spots or blemishes, as they can lead to a watery gratin. For a unique twist, you can mix in a few slices of regular potatoes to add an earthy note, though this will alter the flavor profile slightly.

When slicing sweet potatoes, aim for uniform thinness, approximately 1/8 inch thick. Using a mandoline can speed up this process and ensure consistent cooking. This technique not only affects the cooking time but also results in a creamier texture since the layers will cook through evenly. If you encounter any browning while slicing, a quick soak in water with a bit of lemon juice can help prevent oxidation.

Achieving the Perfect Cream Sauce

The cream mixture is vital for creating the rich layers in your gratin. Heavy cream provides a luxurious mouthfeel, but you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter option, though the texture may be slightly less creamy. To enhance the flavor of your cream, you might infuse it with additional herbs like thyme or even a touch of nutmeg; just warm the cream gently before adding these spices and strain before mixing in with the sweet potatoes.

When mixing the cream, ensure that garlic is evenly distributed, as this will enhance every bite with its aromatic flavor. If you prefer a milder garlic taste, consider roasting the clove prior to mincing. This method softens its sharpness and adds a sweet undertone that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully. Remember, the key is to keep an eye on the mixture; it should be well combined but not overly whipped.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Gratin

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon butter, for greasing

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Baking Dish

Butter a small baking dish to prevent sticking.

Layer the Sweet Potatoes

Arrange half of the sweet potato slices at the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping them.

Mix the Cream Mixture

In a bowl, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Add the Cheese

Pour half of the cream mixture over the sweet potatoes and sprinkle half of the Gruyère cheese on top.

Repeat the Layers

Layer the remaining sweet potato slices, then add the rest of the cream mixture and finish with the remaining cheese.

Bake the Gratin

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

Rest and Serve

Let the gratin sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in a dash of nutmeg or cayenne pepper in the cream mixture. You can also substitute half of the Gruyère with Parmesan cheese for a sharper taste.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Sweet Potato Gratin pairs wonderfully with a variety of proteins. I particularly love serving it alongside roasted chicken or a simple grilled steak, as the sweetness of the dish contrasts nicely with savory meats. For a vegetarian option, this gratin works beautifully with a fresh spinach salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette, balancing out the richness of the dish.

If you're entertaining, consider serving your gratin in individual ramekins for added elegance. This not only makes plating easier but also individual portions are fun and visually appealing. You can top each ramekin with freshly chopped chives or a sprinkle of extra Gruyère for an impressive finishing touch.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, you'll be pleased to know that Sweet Potato Gratin stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it's covered to prevent it from drying out. When reheating, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until it's heated through. Covering the dish with foil helps retain moisture and ensures a warm, creamy texture upon serving.

For longer storage, this gratin can be frozen for up to 2 months. To do this, assemble it in advance without baking and wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you're ready to bake, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then remove the cover and bake according to the original instructions, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s heated thoroughly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the gratin ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it before serving.

→ What can I serve with Sweet Potato Gratin?

It pairs well with roasted meats or a fresh salad for a lighter meal.

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar or Gouda would also work nicely.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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