
THIS CAFE LIFE
Scalloped Potatoes Gratin
Scalloped Potatoes Gratin is a classic oven-baked dish of thinly sliced potatoes layered with cream, garlic, and nutty melted cheese, baked until tender with a deeply golden crust. Rich yet balanced, it’s a timeless side that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, holiday tables, and simple seasonal dinners.

Prep Time:
35 Minutes
Cook Time:
1 - 1 1/2 Hours
Yield:
Serves 8
Ingredients
3 lbs. Russet potatoes, peeled
3 C. Heavy Cream
3 T. Butter
3 Eggs
1 C. Gruyere cheese, grated
1 C. Havarti or Fontina, grated
1 t. White pepper
1 t. Nutmeg
1 t. Curry powder
Salt & freshly ground pepper, to taste
Featured in this recipe: Dutch Oven Braiser · Mandoline

When consistency matters → This is the tool we use. A mandoline delivers clean, even slices — quickly and without guesswork. From potatoes and apples to fennel, cabbage, and root vegetables, it’s the difference between uneven prep and professional results at home.

Step 1 — Prepare the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Step 2 — Make the Custard Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, black pepper, white pepper, nutmeg, and curry powder until smooth.
Step 3 — Warm the Cream
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter over low heat until the butter is fully melted. Slowly whisk the warm cream mixture into the egg mixture, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking.
Step 4 — Add Cheese
Stir in half of the Gruyère and Fontina, mixing until evenly incorporated.
Step 5 — Slice and Combine
Using a mandoline, slice the potatoes into ⅛-inch rounds. Add the slices to the cream mixture as you work, gently tossing to coat evenly.
Step 6 — Assemble the Gratin
Transfer the coated potatoes to a shallow braiser or baking dish, arranging them in even layers. Pour any remaining cream mixture over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheeses.
Step 7 — Bake
Cover with a lid or foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the cover and continue baking for 30–40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.

Artestia Large Serving Spoon & Salad Tongs
Sides to Complete any Meal
A well-built main deserves equally thoughtful accompaniments. These side dishes focus on structure, flavor layering, and textures that round out the meal without competing for attention:
• Sweet Potato Spiral — layered rounds tender inside with lightly caramelized edges
• Potatoes Gratin — delicately sliced potatoes baked in cream - classic golden finish
• Mushroom Risotto — slow-cooked Arborio rice with deep mushroom flavor
• Cowboy Stuffing — hearty, savory stuffing with herbs, aromatics, and cornbread
Prepared individually or as a group, these sides bring warmth, balance, and substance to everything from seasonal gatherings to everyday dinners.
→ Browse Additional Side Dishes
→ See the Kitchen Tools We Use
At This Café Life, transparency matters. We want you to know that some of the links on our website are affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and book travel, buy a product, or sign up for a service, we may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you.
