Creamy Potato and Mushroom Gratin

This creamy potato and mushroom gratin is a delightful dish that combines tender potatoes, savory mushrooms, and a rich cheese sauce. The dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, offering a blend of comfort and gourmet flavors. With layers of thinly sliced potatoes and a mix of mushrooms, each bite is an explosion of taste and texture. The infusion of fresh thyme and a garlic aroma elevates the dining experience. Parmesan cheese adds a satisfying, golden crust that's both crispy and melty. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted for various dietary preferences. Serve it as a main dish or a hearty side, and it's sure to impress your family or guests. It's a must-try for anyone who loves cheesy, comforting casseroles with a twist.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 kg starchy potatoes
1 onion
2-3 cloves garlic
200 g chanterelle or other mushrooms
1/2 tub cream cheese with mushrooms
1 cup milk
30 g butter
100 g Parmesan cheese

Spices and Sauces

1 tbsp fresh thyme
Salt
Black pepper

Preparation Time

Total Time: 70 minutes

Preparation: 20 minutes
Cooking: 50 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes. Parboil them for about 10 minutes in boiling water to soften slightly, then slice them into thin discs.
Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the onion, garlic cloves, and mushrooms.
Sauté Ingredients: Heat a pan, melt the butter, and sauté the onion, garlic, and mushrooms until soft and aromatic.
Mix the Cream Sauce: In a bowl, beat the cream cheese together with milk, thyme, and minced garlic until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Grease the Baking Dish: Using a little butter, grease the bottom and sides of your baking dish to prevent sticking.
Layer the Dish: Lay half of the potato slices on the bottom of the dish. Spread the sautéed mushrooms and onions evenly over the potatoes.
Add Remaining Potatoes: Cover the mushroom layer with the remaining potato slices.
Pour the Sauce: Evenly pour the cream cheese mixture over the layered ingredients, ensuring thorough coverage.
Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 50 minutes.
Add Cheese Topping: Remove the dish from the oven, generously sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
Finish Baking: Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Serve: Allow the gratin to cool for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Tips

Substitutions: Try using different types of mushrooms like button mushrooms or shiitake for varied flavors.
Cheese Alternatives: Gruyère or cheddar can be used instead of Parmesan for a different cheese profile.
Herbs: Fresh sage or rosemary can be used alongside or instead of thyme for a flavor twist.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
Protein: 12 g
Fats: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g

Variations

Vegetarian: Leave out the mushrooms if you prefer a simple potato gratin.
Low-Fat: Substitute the cream cheese with a low-fat cream cheese option or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Vegan: Use plant-based milk and vegan cheese alternatives for a dairy-free option.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Garnish with a sprig of thyme or a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor.

Best Places

Boeufhaus - Known for their elevated comfort foods and cozy dining atmosphere. Location: 1012 N Western Ave, Chicago, USA.
The Little Owl - Offers a range of homestyle dishes with a modern twist. Location: 90 Bedford St, New York, USA.
Petite Chérie Café - A charming café famous for its gratins and French-inspired menu. Location: 42 Rue Cler, Paris, France.
Mushroom Café - Specializes in mushroom-centric dishes and creative cuisine. Location: 5 Garden Ave, London, UK.
La Table de Michèle - Features traditional home-cooked meals with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Location: 108 Rue Saint-Honoré, Paris, France.
The Mushroom Pot - Offers a unique dining experience centered around mushroom dishes. Location: 23 Orchid Dr, Sydney, Australia.
Café Gratin - Renowned for its contemporary takes on classic gratin dishes. Location: 36 Rue de Tolbiac, Paris, France.
Potato & Sauce Kitchen - Offers a variety of gratins with innovative sauces. Location: 12 Spice St, Dublin, Ireland.
Gourmato - Combines gourmet potato dishes with local flavors. Location: 456 Crescent Ave, Toronto, Canada.
Cheese & Co. - Known for its cheese-focused menu and cozy setting. Location: 1996 Cheese Rd, Amsterdam, Netherlands.