Name: Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin: A Cozy Holiday Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Sweet Potatoes (peeled and sliced); 2 cups Cranberries (fresh or thawed frozen); 1 cup Heavy Cream (or coconut cream for vegan option); 1 cup Brown Sugar; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Pepper; 1 cup Gruyère Cheese (shredded); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (or gluten-free option)

As I was layering sweet potato slices for my holiday feast, I couldn’t help but feel the warmth and comfort of tradition wrap around me. The Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin I was creating wasn’t just another side dish; it was a celebration of flavors that meld beautifully together. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes with its golden-crusted top, but it also serves as a quick solution to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With its creamy texture and a hint of tartness from the cranberries, every bite is a delightful surprise. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, being vegetarian-friendly and easily adaptable for vegan and gluten-free diets. How do you spice up your holiday table?

Why Is This Gratin a Must-Try?

Incredibly versatile: This Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin caters to various dietary needs—it’s vegetarian, and with a few tweaks, you can make it vegan or gluten-free!

Rich, comforting flavors: The combination of sweet potatoes and tart cranberries creates an exquisite flavor profile, delivering warmth and nostalgia in every bite.

Beautiful presentation: With its golden, crispy topping and colorful layers, it’s not just a dish; it’s a centerpiece that will elevate your holiday gatherings.

Quick preparation: Despite its impressive taste, this gratin is simple to make, ideal for those busy holiday schedules.

Crowd-pleaser: Whether at festive dinners or cozy gatherings, guests will love this unique side dish, reminiscent of traditional favorites but with a fresh twist.

For more comforting side dishes, check out our recipes for Cheesy Garlic Potato and Hamburger Potato Casserole.

Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin Ingredients

• To create this festive dish, gather the following ingredients that perfectly complement each other and highlight the star of the show—the Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin.

For the Gratin

Sweet Potatoes – Natural sweetness and a creamy texture when baked, essential for the base of the gratin.
Cranberries – Tart bursts of flavor that contrast beautifully with sweet potatoes; fresh cranberries are recommended, but frozen can work well too after thawing.
Heavy Cream – Adds richness and binds the dish together; substitute with coconut cream for a vegan option.
Brown Sugar – Enhances sweetness while balancing the tanginess from cranberries for a harmonious flavor.
Cinnamon – Offers warmth and depth, perfectly complementing the sweet potatoes’ taste.
Salt & Pepper – Key for seasoning, bringing out the best in all the ingredients for the gratin.
Gruyère Cheese – Delivers a rich, nutty flavor along with a wonderfully melty texture on top; cheddar or mozzarella can work as delicious substitutes.
Breadcrumbs – Provides a delightful crunch topping; for gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin cooks evenly and achieves that desirable golden crust. Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray while the oven heats up.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and slice sweet potatoes into uniform rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, then add the sweet potato slices. Boil for 10 to 15 minutes until they are tender but not mushy. Drain the sweet potatoes and set them aside to cool briefly.

Step 3: Layer the First Base
In your greased baking dish, lay down half of the boiled sweet potato slices in an overlapping pattern for a beautiful presentation. Make sure they cover the bottom of the dish evenly to provide a solid foundation for the Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin.

Step 4: Add the Cranberries
Sprinkle half of the fresh cranberries over the first layer of sweet potatoes. Their tartness will beautifully contrast with the sweet potatoes as they bake, creating a delightful flavor profile. Distribute the cranberries evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful.

Step 5: Mix the Cream Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture adds a creamy richness to the gratin. Pour half of this mixture over the first layers of sweet potatoes and cranberries, ensuring it seeps into the layers.

Step 6: Repeat the Layers
Now, repeat the layering process by adding the remaining sweet potato slices over the first half of your gratin. Follow this with the rest of the cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed for a balanced taste. Pour the remaining heavy cream mixture over these layers.

Step 7: Add the Crunchy Topping
Sprinkle the top layer generously with shredded Gruyère cheese, ensuring even coverage. Then, add breadcrumbs on top to create a deliciously crispy crust. This will provide texture and enhance the visual appeal of your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin.

Step 8: Bake the Gratin
Place your assembled gratin in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the top is golden brown and bubbly, creating that enticing crispy layer. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin Variations

Feel free to take your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin to new heights with these creative variations and substitutions!

Vegan Delight: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use your favorite plant-based cheese for a velvety, dairy-free option.
Gluten-Free Crunch: Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for a crisp topping that everyone can enjoy.
Tangy Feta Twist: For a zesty kick, swap Gruyère cheese with crumbled feta, adding a unique flavor dimension to the dish.
Cranberry Alternatives: If fresh cranberries aren’t available, thaw and drain frozen ones for similar taste and texture.
Sweet Potato Swaps: Mix in other root vegetables like parsnips or butternut squash for a colorful, nutrient-rich variation.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cream mixture for an earthier flavor.
Nutty Flavor Boost: Toss in some pecans or walnuts between layers for an extra crunch and nutty essence.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary into the layers or cream mix for a fragrant herbal twist.

For more mouthwatering ideas, don’t miss out on our comforting recipe for Sweet Sour Chicken or Ground Beef Potato casserole!

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for best texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the gratin tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent over-browning.

Serving Suggestions: To freshen up flavors, consider serving with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice after reheating the Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin.

Expert Tips for Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin

Preheat the Oven: Ensuring your oven is preheated to the correct temperature is crucial; it helps achieve a perfect, golden crust on your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin.
Tender Sweet Potatoes: Make sure to boil the sweet potatoes until they’re fully tender. Undercooked potatoes won’t layer well, affecting the gratin’s overall texture.
Layering Technique: For best results, layer the sweet potatoes and cranberries evenly in the dish. This ensures a balanced flavor in every bite and prevents sogginess.
Stay Alert While Baking: Keep an eye on the gratin as it bakes to prevent over-browning. If the top is browning too quickly, consider lightly covering it with foil.
Make Ahead: Feeling pressed for time? Prepare the gratin a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just pop it in the oven right before serving for a hassle-free delight!

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin layers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy holiday cooking days! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, layer the sweet potatoes, cranberries, and cream mixture in your baking dish, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This method maintains freshness and prevents browning of the sweet potatoes. When you’re ready to serve, simply sprinkle on the Gruyère cheese and breadcrumbs before baking at 375°F (190°C) for about 35-40 minutes until golden and bubbly. Your guests will enjoy delightful flavors just as if it were freshly made!

What to Serve with Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin?

The perfect holiday gathering deserves equally delightful accompaniments to elevate your dining experience.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The crispness of Brussels sprouts pairs wonderfully with the creamy gratin, creating a balance of textures and flavors.
Maple-Glazed Carrots: These sweet, tender carrots enhance the sweetness of the gratin while adding a beautiful pop of color to your table.
Herbed Quinoa Salad: Light and refreshing, the quinoa salad adds a nutritional punch, complementing the richness of the gratin without overpowering it.
Cranberry Sauce: A classic holiday staple, homemade cranberry sauce can amplify the tart notes in the gratin, making each bite even more delightful.
Warm Dinner Rolls: Fluffy, freshly baked dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up all the creamy deliciousness of your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin, enhancing the comfort factor of the meal.
Apple Cider: A glass of spiced apple cider, warm or cold, offers a festive touch with its aromatic sweetness, pairing perfectly with the flavors of the holiday dish.
Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, nothing beats a slice of classic pumpkin pie, with its warm spices, creating a fulfilling end to a delightful feast.

Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right sweet potatoes for the gratin?
Absolutely! Look for sweet potatoes that are firm to the touch and free from blemishes or dark spots. The skin should be smooth, and a rich orange color usually indicates a sweeter taste. If you’re unsure, medium-sized sweet potatoes are usually best, as they tend to have a balanced flavor and texture.

How can I store leftover Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin?
To keep your gratin fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This method helps maintain the dish’s delightful texture and flavor.

Can I freeze Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin?
Yes! You can freeze the gratin for up to 2 months. Follow this easy process: wrap the cooled gratin tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn. To reheat, thaw the gratin overnight in the fridge, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to avoid over-browning.

What should I do if my gratin is too watery?
If your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin ends up watery, it may be due to excess moisture from the sweet potatoes or cranberries. To remedy this, try baking it a bit longer uncovered to allow steam to escape and thicken the filling. Additionally, you can consider draining some of the liquid before layering or using less cream in the filling.

Is this dish safe for people with allergies?
Great question! The Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin can be made allergy-friendly. For those avoiding dairy, simply use coconut cream and plant-based cheese. For gluten sensitivities, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free options. Always check labels for specific dietary needs to ensure safety for anyone at your table.

What are some substitutions I can make for specific diets?
The great news about this gratin is its versatility! For a vegan version, swap the heavy cream with coconut cream and the Gruyère cheese for a plant-based cheese alternative. If you’re looking to cut calories, you can also use reduced-fat cream and cheese options. For a gluten-free choice, don’t forget those gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed nuts for the topping!