Enjoy the comforting flavors of a Classic German Asparagus and Potato Gratin, where tender asparagus is paired with creamy, cheesy potatoes in a delightful baked casserole. Perfect for a hearty family dinner or an impressive side dish for special occasions, this dish delivers layers of flavor and texture that make it a perennial favorite during asparagus season. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight meal or hosting a gathering, this gratin combines rich, savory ingredients in a way that’s sure to satisfy and impress every guest at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 kg potatoes thinly sliced
- 500 g green asparagus trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter cut into small pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Nutmeg a pinch, freshly grated
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 200°C (approximately 400°F). Grease a large baking dish with butter.
- Prepare the cream mixture: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and minced garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Heat until the mixture is warm but not boiling.
- Layer the potatoes and asparagus: Arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with a layer of asparagus pieces. Sprinkle some of the Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses over the asparagus. Repeat the layering until all the potatoes, asparagus, and cheese are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Pour the cream mixture: Evenly pour the warm cream mixture over the layered potatoes and asparagus in the dish.
- Add butter pieces: Dot the top of the gratin with small pieces of butter.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
- Serve: Let the gratin sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly. This will make it easier to serve.
Notes
This Asparagus and Potato Gratin recipe serves up the perfect blend of creaminess, cheesiness, and the fresh, earthy flavor of asparagus, making it a luxurious treat for any meal. Enjoy this rich and satisfying dish with a light salad or as a hearty side to a main course.
- Layering: When layering, start and end with a layer of potatoes. The top layer of potatoes will become deliciously crispy under the cheese, while the bottom layer absorbs flavors from the cream and garlic.
- Cheese Varieties: While Gruyère and Parmesan are suggested, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Emmental, sharp cheddar, or a smoked cheese can add different dimensions of flavor to your gratin.
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