Cheesy Potato Gratin for Two

If you’re craving a comforting, indulgent side dish that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Cheesy Potato Gratin for Two. Perfectly portioned and bursting with rich, creamy layers of thinly sliced russet potatoes, caramelized onions, and gooey cheddar cheese, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a dish that’s equally ideal for a cozy weeknight or a special occasion. Best of all, it fits neatly into a 7×5-inch baking dish, making it just right for two servings—no leftover overload here!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly portioned: Designed for two, so no waste or endless leftovers.
• Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples like russet potatoes, onion, and cheddar cheese.
• Rich and creamy: The combination of milk, heavy cream, and butter creates a luscious sauce.
• Easy to prepare: Thin slices of potato and onion layered with cheese and baked to golden perfection.
• Customizable: Easily swap cheeses or add herbs to suit your taste.

What Goes Into Cheesy Potato Gratin for Two

• 1 large russet potato (about 12 oz): Thinly sliced and divided for layering the dish.
• 1/4 onion: Halved root to tip and thinly sliced to add sweetness and depth.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, divided: To season the layers evenly.
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper, divided: Adds a gentle hint of spice.
• 1 heaping teaspoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce for that perfect creamy texture.
• 1 tablespoon cold butter, diced and divided: Adds richness and helps with browning.
• 1/2 cup (2 oz) shredded Cheddar cheese, divided: The star of the show, melting into every bite.
• 1/3 cup milk: Lightens the sauce and adds moisture.
• 1/3 cup heavy cream: Boosts creaminess and creates a silky finish.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• 7×5-inch baking dish: Just the right size for two servings and ensures even baking.
• Sharp knife or mandoline slicer: For thin, uniform potato and onion slices.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the milk, cream, flour, and seasonings.
• Small saucepan: To melt butter and gently heat the cream mixture.
• Oven mitts: For safely handling the hot baking dish.
• Aluminum foil: Optional, for covering the dish while baking to prevent over-browning.

Directions: Cheesy Potato Gratin for Two

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a sharp knife or mandoline, thinly slice the russet potato and onion. Keep the slices as even as possible to ensure they cook uniformly. Divide the potato slices into two equal portions for layering.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt half of the diced butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Season with half the salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Gratin

Lightly butter your 7×5-inch baking dish with the remaining butter. Layer half of the potato slices evenly on the bottom. Sprinkle half of the sliced onions over the potatoes, then season with a pinch of the remaining salt and pepper. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the onions. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, onions, salt, pepper, and cheese.

Step 4: Pour and Bake

Pour the warm cream sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Allow the gratin to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the dish set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Quick Replacement Ideas

• Cheese: Swap cheddar for Gruyère, mozzarella, or a mild Monterey Jack.
• Milk & Cream: Use half-and-half instead of separate milk and cream for a lighter option.
• Onion: Substitute with shallots or leeks for a different flavor profile.
• Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes work well if you prefer a waxier texture.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

• Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly—this ensures they cook through properly and layer nicely.
• Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the gratin firm up for perfect slices.
• When layering, distribute the cheese evenly to avoid clumps and ensure every bite is cheesy.
• Keep an eye on the baking time once you remove the foil to avoid burning the top.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Cheesy Potato Gratin for Two reheats beautifully. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the crispy top. This recipe can also be made ahead of time—assemble it, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge until ready to bake.

Reader Q&A

Can I prepare this gratin vegan or dairy-free?

You can substitute the cheddar cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and use oat or almond milk with a vegan butter substitute in place of dairy products. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Is it okay to use frozen shredded cheese?

Yes, frozen shredded cheese works fine. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before layering to avoid a watery gratin.

Can I add herbs or garlic to this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh thyme, rosemary, or minced garlic can be added to the cream sauce or layered with the potatoes for an aromatic twist.

What if I don’t have a 7×5-inch baking dish?

You can use a slightly larger or smaller dish, but adjust the layering and baking time accordingly. A similar volume dish will work best to ensure even cooking.

More from the Kitchen

• Rich Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole For Family Dinner – Another comforting potato and cheese dish, perfect for feeding a crowd.
• White Cheddar Bacon Mac And Cheese – For when you want cheesy indulgence with a pasta twist.

Serve & Enjoy

This Cheesy Potato Gratin for Two pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables for a balanced meal. It also complements roasted chicken or grilled fish beautifully, making it a versatile side dish that elevates any dinner. Serve it warm and savor the layers of creamy potatoes and melted cheese in every bite.

Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just treating yourself, this gratin recipe brings a little luxury to your table without the fuss. So grab your knife, slice those potatoes thin, and get ready to enjoy a cheesy, creamy, perfectly portioned delight that’s bound to become a favorite.

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