Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin is a cozy, comforting side dish that brings together tender sweet potatoes, tart cranberries, and a creamy, cheesy topping. This festive recipe is perfect for holidays and family dinners, combining sweet and savory flavors in a warm, baked gratin everyone loves.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sweet potato gratin is rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced with pops of cranberry flavor. It’s easy to prepare, looks beautiful on the table, and works just as well for Thanksgiving as it does for cozy winter dinners. The golden breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.
Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin – Cozy Holiday Side Dish
Ingredients
2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced1 cup fresh cranberries1 cup cooking cream or half-and-half1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese1/2 cup breadcrumbs1/4 cup brown sugar1 teaspoon cinnamonSalt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the sweet potato slices until just tender, about 10–15 minutes. Drain well.Layer half of the sweet potatoes evenly in the baking dish.Sprinkle half of the cranberries over the sweet potatoes.In a bowl, mix the cooking cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Pour half of the mixture over the layers.Repeat the layers with the remaining sweet potatoes, cranberries, and cream mixture.Sprinkle the top evenly with Gruyère cheese and breadcrumbs.Bake the Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin for 30–35 minutes, until golden, bubbly, and lightly crisp on top.Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Ingredients
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 cup cooking cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the sweet potato slices until just tender, about 10–15 minutes. Drain well.
- Layer half of the sweet potatoes evenly in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the cranberries over the sweet potatoes.
- In a bowl, mix the cooking cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Pour half of the mixture over the layers.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining sweet potatoes, cranberries, and cream mixture.
- Sprinkle the top evenly with Gruyère cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake the Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin for 30–35 minutes, until golden, bubbly, and lightly crisp on top.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks
- Slice sweet potatoes evenly to ensure consistent baking.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
- For a sharper flavor, mix a little Parmesan with the Gruyère.
Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Vegetarian
Notes
This gratin can be assembled a day ahead and baked just before serving. Perfect for stress-free holiday meals.
Nutrition (Approximate)
- Calories: 280
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 14 g
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried cranberries?
Yes, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before using.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I use instead of Gruyère?
Swiss cheese or mild cheddar work well.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Similar Recipes
- Creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
- Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cranberries
- Cheesy Vegetable Gratin
Conclusion
Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin is a comforting, festive side dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. With its creamy layers, tart cranberries, and golden topping, it’s a recipe that feels special without being complicated.