Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin: A Must-Try Festive Recipe!

Name: Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced; 1 cup fresh cranberries; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese or plant-based alternative; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Published: December 6, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful Combination: The sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the tartness of cranberries, creating a unique flavor profile.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this impressive dish without stress.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for holiday meals, yet delicious enough to serve on any occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: This gratin is sure to satisfy all tastes, making it a hit at gatherings.
Comfort Food: Creamy and warm, it brings the cozy feel of home-cooked meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking dish
Large pot
Cutting board
Knife
Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and easy serving for your gratin.
Large pot: Ideal for boiling sweet potatoes quickly and efficiently.
Mixing bowl: Great for combining ingredients smoothly for the cream mixture.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Gratin

2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
1 cup fresh cranberries

For the Cream Mixture

1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

How to Make Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin: A Must-Try Festive Recipe!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready when you assemble your dish.

Step 2: Boil Sweet Potatoes

In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
Add the sliced sweet potatoes and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Layer Sweet Potatoes

Drain the boiled sweet potatoes.
Layer half of them in a greased baking dish.

Step 4: Add Cranberries

Sprinkle half of the fresh cranberries over the layer of sweet potatoes.

Step 5: Combine Cream Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
* Mix together heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.

Step 6: Pour Cream Mixture

Pour half of the cream mixture over the layered sweet potatoes and cranberries.

Step 7: Repeat Layers

Repeat layering with remaining sweet potatoes, cranberries, and pour on the remaining cream mixture.

Step 8: Add Toppings

Top with shredded Gruyère cheese and breadcrumbs evenly across the surface.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 10: Cool Before Serving

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving warm to enjoy its delicious flavors.

How to Serve Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin: A Must-Try Festive Recipe!

Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin is a delightful dish that adds warmth and flavor to any festive gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this delicious side.

Pair with Roasted Vegetables

item: Complement the gratin with a mix of seasonal roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts and carrots, for a colorful plate.

Serve with Herb-Roasted Chicken

item: The creamy texture of the gratin pairs beautifully with juicy herb-roasted chicken, creating a satisfying meal.

Add a Fresh Green Salad

item: A light salad featuring mixed greens, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the gratin.

Include Cranberry Sauce

item: For an extra pop of flavor, serve homemade cranberry sauce alongside the gratin to enhance its berry notes.

Top with Fresh Herbs

item: Garnish individual servings with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added freshness and color.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin: A Must-Try Festive Recipe!

Perfecting your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin can take it from good to extraordinary. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect dish.

Choose the right sweet potatoes: Opt for firm, smooth sweet potatoes for the best texture and flavor in your gratin.
Layer evenly: Ensure you layer the sweet potatoes and cranberries evenly for consistent cooking and flavor throughout.
Adjust seasoning: Taste your cream mixture before baking; you can always add more salt, pepper, or cinnamon according to your preference.
Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your gratin towards the end of baking. You want it bubbly and golden but not overly browned.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin: A Must-Try Festive Recipe!

Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin pairs well with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Consider these options for a well-rounded meal.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting contrast to the gratin.
Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in olive oil add brightness and crunch.
Quinoa Salad: A nutty quinoa salad with diced vegetables offers a healthy complement to the rich gratin.
Baked Acorn Squash: Roasted acorn squash drizzled with maple syrup brings sweetness that matches well with the dish.
Cornbread Muffins: Light and fluffy cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up any creamy sauce from the gratin.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or grains add vibrant color and texture to your table.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts provide a savory element that balances the sweetness of the gratin.
Cranberry Walnut Salad: This fresh salad combines cranberries and walnuts for a fruity crunch that pairs excellently.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Overcooking the Sweet Potatoes: Ensure you cook sweet potato slices just until tender. Overcooked potatoes can become mushy and affect the texture of your gratin.
Ignoring the Layering Technique: Proper layering is crucial for even flavor distribution. Make sure to alternate sweet potatoes and cranberries evenly for a balanced taste.
Not Seasoning Enough: Failing to season between layers can lead to blandness. Always sprinkle salt and pepper throughout the layers for better flavor.
Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting into the gratin too soon can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving for better presentation.
Using Non-Fresh Ingredients: Using stale breadcrumbs or old cranberries can ruin the dish. Always opt for fresh ingredients to ensure maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover gratin in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin: A Must-Try Festive Recipe!

Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin: A Must-Try Festive Recipe!

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the gratin with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat in short bursts, checking every minute until hot.
Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, gently warm portions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin?

Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin is a festive side dish that combines sweet potatoes with tart cranberries, layered and baked with creamy goodness.

Can I customize my Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin?

Absolutely! You can add different cheeses, swap cranberries for other fruits, or adjust spices according to your taste.

How do I make Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or another plant-based cream and use dairy-free cheese options.

Can I prepare Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it a day before and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

The Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin is not only a delightful addition to any holiday table but also offers versatility in flavors and ingredients. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or nuts. This recipe is sure to impress your guests!

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