Description
This potato gratin recipe without cream is a delicious, lighter take on the classic dish. Made with milk or broth instead of heavy cream, it delivers a rich, creamy texture without the extra fat. Perfect for those looking for a healthier, dairy-free, or low-fat alternative!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet, thinly sliced)
- 1 ½ cups milk or dairy-free alternative (almond, oat, or coconut milk)
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup grated cheese (Parmesan, Gruyère, or dairy-free option)
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 tbsp flour or cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, for extra depth)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or ½ tsp dried thyme
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash, peel (optional), and thinly slice the potatoes (about ⅛ inch thick).
- Soak them in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Drain and pat dry before layering.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce Without Cream
- In a saucepan, melt butter (or heat olive oil) over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic and onion until soft and fragrant.
- Add flour and stir for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in milk and broth, stirring continuously until thickened.
- Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and thyme.
Step 3: Assemble the Gratin
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter or oil.
- Arrange a layer of potatoes in the dish, slightly overlapping.
- Pour a portion of the sauce over the potatoes and sprinkle with cheese.
- Repeat until all layers are completed.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese.
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 5 minutes.
- For a gluten-free version, replace flour with cornstarch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: SIDE DISH
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: FRENCH