Irresistible Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin Recipe

Imagine biting into a warm, creamy Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin that dances on your taste buds like a joyful tango. The sweet potatoes melt into a velvety embrace with tart cranberries, creating a beautiful symphony of flavors and textures. With every scoop, you can almost hear the angels singing as buttery breadcrumbs sprinkle over the top, adding that irresistible crunch.

This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s tied to memories filled with laughter and family gatherings. I remember the first time I made it for Thanksgiving. My cousin, who usually claims to despise sweet potatoes, declared it “life-changing!” Now, it’s a staple at our holiday feasts. Get ready for this amazing flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

I once served this gratin at a potluck and received raving reviews. My friends were begging me for the recipe!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Sweet Potatoes: Pick firm, unblemished sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture in your gratin.

• Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries work wonderfully; ensure they are plump and vibrant.

• Heavy Cream: Opt for heavy cream for a rich, luscious sauce that binds everything together beautifully.

• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds depth; feel free to mix in some Gruyère for extra flavor.

• Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy layers below.

For seasoning:

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.

• Fresh Thyme: A sprinkle of fresh thyme elevates the dish with its aromatic notes.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and slice sweet potatoes into thin rounds—aim for about 1/8 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and tender bites throughout the dish.

Create the Creamy Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, salt, pepper, and chopped thyme. Stir frequently until warmed through but not boiling; this helps meld all those flavors together.

Layer Your Ingredients: Start layering by placing half of the sweet potato slices at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cranberries on top, followed by half of the cheese mixture.

Add More Layers!: Repeat with another layer of sweet potatoes, remaining cranberries, and top with remaining cheese mixture while ensuring an even distribution across all layers.

Topping It Off: Finally, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top layer. Drizzle melted butter on top before sliding it into your preheated oven for about 45 minutes until bubbling and golden brown on top.

Let it cool slightly before serving; this allows flavors to settle while making serving much easier! Your Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin is now ready to steal the spotlight at any gathering!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the sweet potatoes until tender, then layer them with cranberries and creamy goodness. Baking ensures everything melds beautifully for that ultimate comfort food experience.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch up the cheese or add nuts for crunch. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavors even more, making it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep that delicious creaminess intact.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of my first Thanksgiving dinner as an adult; I was determined to impress my family with something unique and delicious. Their delighted faces as they took their first bites made all my efforts worthwhile.

FAQ

What can I substitute for sweet potatoes in Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin?

You can use butternut squash or regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes.

Can I make Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake before serving.

What pairs well with Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin?

This dish complements roasted turkey, ham, or a festive salad perfectly.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin is a delightful blend of creamy sweet potatoes and tart cranberries, topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs. This dish offers a unique flavor profile that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. With its vibrant colors and comforting texture, it’s sure to be a hit at your next meal.

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Ingredients

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• 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced thin (1/8 inch)
• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a saucepan, heat heavy cream with salt, pepper, and thyme until warmed through but not boiling.
3. Layer half the sweet potato slices in the baking dish, followed by half the cranberries and half the cheese. Repeat layers.
4. Top with panko breadcrumbs and drizzle melted butter over.
5. Bake for 45 minutes until golden brown and bubbling. Let cool slightly before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (185g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 50mg