Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin

Sweet potatoes and cranberries come together in this delightful Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin, making it a perfect dish for your holiday table or any special occasion. The creamy layers of sweet potato and the tangy burst of cranberries create a beautiful contrast, while the bubbling cheese on top adds a comforting finish. This gratin not only looks stunning, it’s also rich in flavor and has a lovely texture that will leave your guests wanting more.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 280
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 278mg

Why Make This Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin

This Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a celebration of flavors! The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries, while the creamy richness from the heavy cream and cheese brings everything together. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or simply looking to impress family on a regular weeknight, this dish hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s an excellent way to add seasonal produce to your meal.

How to Make Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin

Ingredients:

• 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced thin
• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup grated cheese (Gruyère recommended)
• 2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces
• Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by peeling and slicing the sweet potatoes into thin rounds, making sure they are about 1/8 inch thick for even cooking.

Step 2: Layering

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sweet potato slices across the bottom. Scatter half of the fresh cranberries on top, letting their tartness shine through the layers.

Step 3: Mixing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Once well combined, pour half of this creamy mixture over the layers in the baking dish.

Step 4: Finishing

Repeat the layering process with the remaining sweet potatoes and cranberries, and then pour the rest of the cream mixture on top. To finish, sprinkle the grated cheese uniformly over the dish and dot with pieces of butter. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Finally, allow to cool slightly, then garnish with thyme if desired and serve.

How to Serve Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin

Serve this gratin as a standout side dish during holiday meals or family gatherings. Pair it with herb-roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. The colors and textures make it an eye-catching addition to any table setting.

How to Store Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin

If you have leftovers, store the gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also freeze the dish before baking for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.

Expert Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin

• To save time, you can prep the sweet potato rounds ahead of time and store them in cold water in the fridge.
• For a creamier texture, consider adding a mixture of half-and-half instead of all heavy cream.
• If you don’t have fresh cranberries, you can use dried cranberries as a substitute; just soak them in warm water for about 15 minutes before layering.
• For added crunch, mix in some breadcrumbs before the cheese layer.
• Ensure uniform thickness of sweet potato slices for even cooking and tender texture.

Delicious Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the cream mixture for a surprising kick.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix different cheeses such as Parmesan or Monterey Jack with the Gruyère for a cheesy explosion of flavors.
• Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or sage in addition to or instead of thyme for a fresh twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use canned sweet potatoes? While you can use them, fresh sweet potatoes provide the best texture and flavor. If necessary, drain and rinse canned ones thoroughly.
• What if I can’t find fresh cranberries? Dried cranberries are a great alternative; though sweeter, they’ll still lend flavor to the dish.
• Can this dish be made vegan? Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a plant-based cheese for a delightful vegan option.
• How can I make this dish ahead of time? You can assemble it the day before up to the baking step, cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
• Will leftovers taste good? Yes! It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Conclusion

This Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin is not only a delicious addition to your meals but also a comforting dish that encapsulates the essence of the season. Its layers of flavor and texture make it a favorite among families and friends. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!

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