Gratin Dauphinois hails from the Dauphiné region in the French Alps — thinly sliced potatoes baked slowly in cream and garlic until meltingly tender. Unlike many modern versions, the traditional recipe contains no cheese at all, letting the potatoes and cream speak for themselves.

Ingredients

1.2 kg potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
500 ml double cream
200 ml milk
2 cloves garlic
Butter, for the dish
Freshly grated nutmeg
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Rub a baking dish with a cut garlic clove, then butter it generously.
Layer the sliced potatoes in the dish, seasoning each layer with salt, pepper and a little nutmeg.
Warm the cream and milk with the remaining garlic clove, minced, and pour over the potatoes.
Bake at 150°C (300°F) for about 90 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden.

Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before serving — it pairs beautifully with roasted meats.

About This Recipe

Gratin Dauphinois (French Scalloped Potatoes) is one of those dishes that rewards a little care and shares beautifully at the table. Below you’ll find timings, practical tips and serving ideas so you can make it with confidence, whether it is your first attempt or a familiar favourite you want to get just right.

At a Glance

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: Around 1 hour
Serves: 4
Difficulty: Easy

Tips for the Best Results

Season in layers as you cook the Gratin Dauphinois (French Scalloped Potatoes) rather than only at the end.
Let roasted or braised meat rest before serving so the juices redistribute.
Bring the dish together over gentle heat; a slow finish deepens the flavour.
Taste before serving and adjust salt, acid and freshness to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Gratin Dauphinois (French Scalloped Potatoes) with seasonal vegetables, a simple grain, or good bread to catch the juices. A crisp green salad rounds out the plate nicely.

Storage

Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently so the texture stays as good as freshly made, and freeze portions for longer storage.