Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the holiday season approaches, I often find myself daydreaming about comforting dishes that bring warmth to our gatherings. One of my favorite creations is the Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin—a vibrant and festive vegetarian side dish that’s not only beautiful but also quick to whip up amid the holiday hustle. This delectable gratin perfectly balances the creamy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tart pop of cranberries, delighting taste buds and transforming any meal into a celebration. With its flexibility for dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free variations, this dish invites everyone to the table without compromise. Are you ready to elevate your holiday feast with this savory delight? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin a Must-Try? Comforting, Cozy Dish: This Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin is the perfect choice for chilly holiday gatherings, offering warmth and nostalgia in every bite. Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy sweet potatoes and tart cranberries creates a delightful dance of flavors that will leave your guests craving more. Dietary Versatility: With easy swaps for vegan or gluten-free adaptations, everyone can enjoy this crowd-pleaser without feeling left out! Quick and Simple: Ready in under an hour, this gratin is as effortless as it is delicious, making it ideal for busy cooks during the festive season. Stunning Presentation: Its beautiful layers and golden crust make it a show-stopping centerpiece that will impress both family and friends! Pair it with other festive sides like Feta Cranberry Rigatoni or Sweet Savory Slow for a holiday spread that shines! Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin Ingredients For the Gratin • Sweet Potatoes – Provides the main body and sweetness of the gratin; peel and slice before boiling for optimal texture. • Fresh Cranberries – Offers tartness to balance the dish’s sweetness; frozen cranberries can be substituted if thawed and drained. • Heavy Cream – Adds a creamy richness; for a vegan option, replace with coconut cream. • Brown Sugar – Enhances sweetness; adjust the amount based on your personal taste preferences. • Ground Cinnamon – Provides warmth and aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile. • Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning, enhancing the flavors of the dish. • Gruyère Cheese – Adds a savory, melty topping; substitute with cheddar or mozzarella for a milder flavor, or feta for a tangy twist. • Breadcrumbs – Gives a crunchy texture topping; use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers if needed. Optional Toppings • Chopped Fresh Herbs – Garnish with herbs like thyme or parsley for an added burst of flavor and color. • Extra Cheese – Sprinkle more cheese on top for an additional cheesy crust that everyone will love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin bakes evenly and develops that desirable golden crust. Set your oven rack to the center position for optimal heat distribution while you prepare the ingredients. Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. Then, in a large pot, bring water to a boil and carefully add the sweet potato slices. Boil them for about 10-15 minutes until they are just tender but not mushy; they should still hold their shape. Drain well. Step 3: First Layer of Sweet Potatoes Grease a baking dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Once drained, layer half of the cooked sweet potato slices in the bottom of the dish, ensuring they fit snugly together for even cooking. This creates a solid base for your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin. Step 4: Add Cranberries and Cream Mixture Sprinkle half of the tart cranberries evenly over the sweet potatoes. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Drizzle half of this cream mixture over the cranberries, covering them lightly to enhance their flavor and moisture. Step 5: Repeat the Layering Now it’s time for another layer! Repeat the process by placing the remaining sweet potato slices on top. Follow this by adding the rest of the cranberries, ensuring an even distribution. Drizzle the remaining cream mixture over this layer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as the dish cooks. Step 6: Finish with Toppings For that wonderful cheesy, crunchy texture, sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese generously over the top of the gratin. Finally, add a layer of breadcrumbs to create a satisfying crunch when baked. This combination will elevate your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin to a new level of deliciousness. Step 7: Bake to Perfection Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and look for a golden brown, bubbly top as a sign of doneness. This visual cue means the gratin is ready to be taken out and allowed to cool slightly before serving. Make Ahead Options These Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can assemble the gratin up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate to retain freshness. The layers of sweet potatoes and cranberries will blend together beautifully overnight. When you’re ready to serve, just remove the cover and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. This way, you can enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and more time spent with your loved ones during the holiday season! Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin Variations Feel free to get creative with your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin by trying out these exciting alternatives! Vegan Version: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based cheese for a delightful, dairy-free dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Your guests will never miss the dairy! Gluten-Free: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed nuts or gluten-free cracker crumbs to ensure everyone can enjoy this crowd-pleaser without worries about gluten. Cheese Swaps: If Gruyère doesn’t thrill you, try cheddar or mozzarella for a mild, melty topping. You could also go adventurous with feta for a tangy kick. Spicy Twist: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the cream mixture. This will add a delightful heat that’ll liven up your gratin and surprise your taste buds. Buttery Finish: Drizzle melted vegan butter or an herb-infused oil on top of the breadcrumbs before baking, adding an extra layer of richness and flavor. Cranberry Alternatives: Feel free to swap cranberries for other tart fruits like pomegranate seeds or tart cherries for a new, vibrant twist on this traditional dish. Herbal Infusion: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary into the cream mixture, bringing aromatic warmth and an extra layer of sophistication to your gratin. Nutty Crunch: Mix finely chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans) into your breadcrumb topping for added texture and nutty flavor. It’s a unique crunch that elevates the dish beautifully! These variations can add new life to your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin, perfect for your holiday table. For more delicious options, consider pairing your gratin with Apple Cranberry Coleslaw or a refreshing Tropical Fruit Salad Sweetened. Enjoy experimenting and making this recipe your own! Storage Tips for Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Ensure the container is sealed to prevent moisture loss. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the gratin before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2–3 minutes, or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Enjoy your delicious Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin again with ease! What to Serve with Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin As you gather around the table for the holidays, consider these delightful accompaniments to create an unforgettable meal experience. Garlicky Green Beans: Their crisp texture and vibrant flavor balance the creamy gratin perfectly, adding freshness to your spread. These green beans can be sautéed quickly to maintain their bright color, making them an easy yet stunning addition. Maple-Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts caramelized with maple syrup complements the sweet elements in the gratin. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they bring a rich, earthy note to your festive plate. Herbed Quinoa Salad: Light and fluffy quinoa mixed with fresh herbs and a zesty lemon dressing offers a refreshing contrast. This healthy side provides an interesting texture and adds another layer of flavor harmony to the meal. Cranberry Sauce: A classic! The tartness of homemade cranberry sauce brightens the palate, harmonizing beautifully with the sweet potato and cranberry flavors of the gratin. Savory Stuffing: The robust flavors of herb-stuffed bread and vegetables complement the sweet and creamy aspects of the gratin. Add in some nuts for extra crunch to create a textural delight that will please any crowd. Sparkling Apple Cider: Toast to the season with a glass of bubbly apple cider! Its sweet-tart notes echo the gratin’s flavors while also refreshing the palate between bites. Pumpkin Pie: End the meal on a sweet note with a classic pumpkin pie. The spices of cinnamon and nutmeg will resonate with the holiday spirit, leaving everyone with a cozy feeling. These pairings will elevate your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin, creating a festive feast to remember! Expert Tips for Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin Even Cooking: Always preheat your oven for optimal results. A properly heated oven ensures the Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin cooks evenly and achieves that lovely golden crust. Layer Wisely: Layer your ingredients snugly in the baking dish. This not only improves the presentation but also helps the flavors meld beautifully during baking. Crispy Topping: To achieve a perfect crispy top, consider adding extra cheese or breadcrumbs at the last few minutes of baking. This ensures a satisfying crunch! Cooling Time: Allow the dish to cool for about 5-10 minutes after baking. This rest period helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve without slippage. Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary in your cream mixture. These will elevate the flavor profile of your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin, adding aromatic warmth. Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin Recipe FAQs How can I choose the best sweet potatoes for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm without any dark spots or wrinkles. They should be smooth and have a vibrant, rich color. If you see any blemishes or softer areas, it’s best to choose different ones. How should I store leftovers of the Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin? Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the gratin cool to room temperature before sealing it in the container to avoid condensation, which can make it soggy. Can I freeze the Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin? Absolutely! You can freeze the gratin before baking. Wrap it tightly in both plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake according to the recipe instructions for best results. What should I do if my gratin doesn’t bubble or brown properly? No worries at all! If your gratin doesn’t bubble up or brown as expected while baking, consider increasing the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 5-10 minutes of baking. Keep a close watch to prevent burning and to ensure the top reaches a beautiful golden color. Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten allergies? Absolutely! To make the Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute crushed nuts for the topping. Both options will provide a crunchy texture without compromising flavor, making this dish inclusive for all dietary needs. Can I make this gratin a day ahead of time? Very much! I often prepare the Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin a day ahead by assembling it entirely, then covering it tightly with foil and refrigerating. On the day of serving, simply pop it in the oven until heated through, which saves time and effort during busy holiday gatherings. Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin: A Cozy Holiday Delight Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin is a vibrant vegetarian side dish, balancing creamy sweetness with tart cranberries, perfect for holiday gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 8 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: VegetarianCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Gratin2 lbs Sweet Potatoes Peel and slice before boiling for optimal texture.2 cups Fresh Cranberries Frozen cranberries can be substituted if thawed and drained.1 cup Heavy Cream For a vegan option, replace with coconut cream.1/4 cup Brown Sugar Adjust according to personal taste preferences.1 tsp Ground Cinnamon Enhances the overall taste profile.1 tsp Salt Essential for seasoning.1/2 tsp Pepper Essential for seasoning.1 cup Gruyère Cheese Substitutable with cheddar or mozzarella for a milder flavor.1 cup Breadcrumbs Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.Optional Toppings1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Herbs Garnish with herbs like thyme or parsley.1/2 cup Extra Cheese Sprinkle more cheese on top. Equipment OvenBaking dishlarge potmixing bowlWhisk Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and set the oven rack to the center position.Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. Boil in water for 10-15 minutes until tender.Grease a baking dish and layer half of the sweet potato slices on the bottom.Sprinkle half of the cranberries evenly over the sweet potatoes. Whisk together heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, and drizzle half over the cranberries.Layer remaining sweet potatoes and cranberries, then drizzle the remaining cream mixture over the top.Sprinkle Gruyère cheese and breadcrumbs over the gratin.Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 7gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 8mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze before baking and thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
