Creamy Potato Gratin: A Culinary Delight

Creamy potato gratin is a classic French dish that is both comforting and elegant. It is made with thinly sliced potatoes that are layered in a baking dish with a creamy sauce. The potatoes are then baked until they are tender and the sauce is bubbly and browned. Potato gratin can be served as a main course or as a side dish. It is a great option for a special occasion or for a cozy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

* 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced * 3 cups heavy cream * 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese * 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley * 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme * 1/4 cup butter, melted * Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). 2. In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat. 3. Pour the potato mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. 4. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbly and browned. 5. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips

* For a richer flavor, use Gruyère cheese instead of Parmesan cheese. * To make the gratin ahead of time, assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, bring to room temperature and then bake as directed. * If you don't have heavy cream, you can use milk instead. However, the gratin will not be as creamy. * Serve the gratin with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Variations

* Add 1/2 cup of chopped cooked bacon to the gratin for a smoky flavor. * Add 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the gratin for a sweet and tangy flavor. * Add 1/2 cup of chopped fresh mushrooms to the gratin for an earthy flavor. Creamy potato gratin is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Whether you serve it as a main course or as a side dish, it is sure to be a hit.