Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin is a delicious holiday dish that combines sweet potatoes and fresh cranberries, topped with creamy Gruyère cheese and breadcrumbs. This dish is not only festive but also a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will impress your guests at any gathering. The vibrant colors and rich taste make it a perfect addition to your holiday table.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin

This sweet potato cranberry dish is loved for many reasons. First, it offers a unique twist on traditional holiday flavors, combining sweet potatoes and tart cranberries. Second, the creamy Gruyère cheese adds a delightful richness that elevates the dish. Third, the sweet potato casserole is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a healthy option for your festive menu. Fourth, it can easily be made ahead of time, making your holiday preparations stress-free. Additionally, this dish is versatile, allowing for variations like adding nuts or spices. Lastly, it serves as a stunning centerpiece that brings warmth and cheer to your table.

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin

Gather these items:

900 g sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
120 g fresh cranberries
240 ml heavy cream
100 g Gruyère cheese, shredded
60 g breadcrumbs
55 g brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 190°C.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook sweet potato slices until tender, approximately 10–15 minutes.
Step 3: Drain sweet potatoes well and arrange half in an even layer within a greased baking dish.
Step 4: Scatter half of the fresh cranberries over the sweet potato layer.
Step 5: In a bowl, combine heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
Step 6: Pour half of the cream mixture evenly over the layered sweet potatoes and cranberries.
Step 7: Repeat with the remaining sweet potatoes, cranberries, and cream mixture to form a second layer.
Step 8: Top the assembled gratin with shredded Gruyère and breadcrumbs.
Step 9: Transfer the dish to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes until the surface is golden brown and the mixture bubbles around the edges.
Step 10: Allow the gratin to cool briefly before serving to enable clean slicing.

Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor.
Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before slicing to ensure clean pieces.
This dish can be made vegan by substituting heavy cream with coconut cream and Gruyère with a vegan cheese alternative.
Consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.

Best Ways to Serve Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin

Serve this creamy sweet potato cranberry gratin alongside your holiday main dishes such as roasted turkey or glazed ham. It also pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad for a delightful contrast. For a more casual gathering, consider serving it as a sweet potato cranberry side dish at a potluck.

How to Store and Reheat Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin

To store leftovers, cover the gratin tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. Reheat in the oven at 180°C until warmed through, about 20 minutes. This makes it a great option for meal prep, ensuring you can enjoy this delicious dish throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin

What’s the secret to perfect Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin?

The secret lies in using perfectly cooked sweet potatoes and fresh cranberries. Layering them with the creamy mixture ensures that each bite is flavorful. A hint of cinnamon enhances the overall taste, making it a memorable sweet potato cranberry holiday recipe.

Can I make Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gratin a day in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve for a warm, comforting dish at your gathering.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure your sweet potatoes are cooked until fork-tender but not mushy. Also, don’t skip letting the gratin cool before slicing; this will help maintain its shape and make for a more appealing presentation.

Variations of Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin You Can Try

There are many fun twists on this classic dish. Consider a vegan sweet potato cranberry bake by replacing dairy products with plant-based alternatives. You can also experiment by adding spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor profile. For a savory touch, incorporate sautéed onions or garlic into the layers.

For more information on the health benefits of sweet potatoes, check out this Healthline article.

For a delicious dessert option, try making Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler to complement your holiday meal.

Additionally, if you’re looking for a sweet treat, consider Irresistible Peach Upside Down Mini Cakes for dessert.