Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin

Name: Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced; 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries; 1 1/2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon thyme (optional)

December 30, 2025 by Mae

Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin baked dish garnished and ready to serve

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Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin: A Cozy Dish for Every Gathering

When autumn’s crisp air begins to whisper through the trees, the rich hues of orange and red remind us of festive gatherings and delicious food. There’s something magical about the way sweet potatoes dance with the tartness of cranberries, creating a symphony of flavors that speaks to the heart. Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin is not just a dish; it’s an experience that invites warmth and camaraderie—a must for Thanksgiving tables, cozy family dinners, or holiday feasts.

Imagine walking into your home as the decadent aroma of baked sweet potatoes envelops you, mingling with the sweet tang of cranberries and the nutty scent of melted Gruyère cheese. Your loved ones gather around, eagerly anticipating the first bite of this beautifully layered dish that promises comfort, nourishment, and sheer delight. Each serving provides a vibrant splash of color, while the creamy texture and crunchy topping create a delightful contrast in every forkful. It’s a recipe that sings of love and togetherness, wrapping you in a cozy embrace that feels like home.

What You’ll Need

Creating this scrumptious Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin is a delightful journey, beginning with simple yet flavorful ingredients. Let’s gather everything we need to whip up this comforting dish.

Ingredients

4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1 1/2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon thyme (optional)

Tools

Assemble your kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. You’ll need a few essentials such as:

A large baking dish to layer everything beautifully
A mixing bowl for combining ingredients
A whisk for blending the cream and seasoning
A sharp knife for slicing the sweet potatoes
A skillet for any pre-cook steps or sautéing, if desired

How to Make It

Crafting this Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin is like painting a masterpiece. With each step, your kitchen transforms into a haven of delicious anticipation. So let’s dive in!

Prep the Base

Start by preheating your oven to a cheerful 375°F (190°C). There’s a sweet anticipation that fills the air as it warms up. Next, grab those vibrant sweet potatoes and slice them into thin, even rounds. Their earthy sweetness will be your canvas. Gently layer half of these golden slices along the bottom of your greased baking dish, creating a beautiful, inviting base. Sprinkle half of the bright cranberries over the sweet potatoes, their ruby color twinkling like jewels. Then, shower half of the shredded Gruyère cheese across this layer, watching it cascade like snowflakes in a winter wonderland.

Build the Flavor

With the base set, it’s time to repeat the process. Layering is an art form here! Add the remaining sweet potato slices in a pleasing pattern, followed by another generous layer of cranberries that promise a burst of flavor. Top this with the rest of the Gruyère, allowing its creamy richness to weave into every corner of the dish. Now, take a moment to admire the vibrant colors—this Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin is already a feast for the eyes!

Pour the Cream

Now comes the magic! Pour the heavy cream over the layers, watching as it seeps into every crevice, enveloping the sweet potatoes and cranberries in a gentle embrace. Season generously with salt and pepper; the simple yet powerful flavors will elevate this dish to new heights. If you wish to add a little something special, sprinkle thyme for an aromatic touch. The earthy scent will swirl through your kitchen and give the gratin a warm, herbal note that complements the sweet and tart elements beautifully.

Finish with a Crunch

For that final touch, let’s create a beautiful golden crust. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until they resemble sandy shores. This mixture adds texture and a crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creaminess below. Sprinkle it lovingly over the top, ensuring each bite will give you that satisfying crunch as you dig in. It’s a visual delight!

Bake to Perfection

Place your masterpiece in the oven and let the magic happen! As it bakes for about 45 minutes, your home will fill with an irresistible aroma. The sweet potatoes will soften and the top will become golden brown and bubbly, creating a beautiful crust that beckons everyone to the table. When you check for doneness, the sweet potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork. Once out of the oven, allow the gratin to cool for a few minutes; this will complete the flavors and make serving even easier.

Creative Twists

While the Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin is phenomenal just as it is, there are endless ways to add your personal touch:

Seasonal Flavor Sauces: During the holidays, drizzle some sage brown butter over the top for a nutty flavor that’s perfectly festive.
Nutty Goodness: For a delightful twist, add toasted pecans or walnuts to the breadcrumb topping for an added crunch and depth.
Herb Infusion: Swap thyme for rosemary or sage to shift the flavor profile to a more autumnal vibe that resonates with Thanksgiving traditions.
Vegan Variation: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and the cheese with a vegan alternative to cater to plant-based diets while still enjoying the delicious layers.
Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked and crumbled sausage in between the layers or mixing in some sautéed spinach alongside the cranberries for an extra veggie boost!

Final Inspiration

There is something deeply satisfying about preparing and sharing the Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin. Each bite tells a story of tradition, gratitude, and connection to those we love. This dish is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to slow down, gather your loved ones, and create beautiful memories around a table filled with laughter, warmth, and delicious food.

I encourage you to embrace this cozy recipe and make it a cherished part of your seasonal rotation. Share it at gatherings or simply whip it up on a chilly weeknight. Let the Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin fill your home with warmth and your heart with joy, ensuring every moment shared is savored to the fullest. Enjoy every layered bite!