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Potato Gratin Recipe Without Cream

Potato Gratin Recipe Without Cream

This potato gratin recipe without cream is a delicious, lighter take on the classic dish. Made with milk or broth instead of heavy cream, it delivers a rich, creamy texture without the extra fat. Perfect for those looking for a healthier, dairy-free, or low-fat alternative!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet, thinly sliced)
  • 1 ½ cups milk or dairy-free alternative (almond, oat, or coconut milk)
  • 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated cheese (Parmesan, Gruyère, or dairy-free option)
  • 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
  • 1 tbsp flour or cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, for extra depth)
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme or ½ tsp dried thyme

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

  1. Wash, peel (optional), and thinly slice the potatoes (about ⅛ inch thick).
  2. Soak them in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch.
  3. Drain and pat dry before layering.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce Without Cream

  1. In a saucepan, melt butter (or heat olive oil) over medium heat.
  2. Sauté garlic and onion until soft and fragrant.
  3. Add flour and stir for 1 minute to form a roux.
  4. Slowly whisk in milk and broth, stirring continuously until thickened.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and thyme.

Step 3: Assemble the Gratin

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Grease a baking dish with butter or oil.
  3. Arrange a layer of potatoes in the dish, slightly overlapping.
  4. Pour a portion of the sauce over the potatoes and sprinkle with cheese.
  5. Repeat until all layers are completed.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

  1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese.
  • For extra crispiness, broil for the last 5 minutes.
  • For a gluten-free version, replace flour with cornstarch.

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