A delicious and festive Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin that combines the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tartness of cranberries, perfect for holiday gatherings.
2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed and drained)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt (plus 1 tablespoon for boiling water)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add sweet potato slices and cook for 10-15 minutes until just tender but still holding their shape. Drain thoroughly and pat dry.
Arrange half of the sweet potato slices in the prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly like roof shingles.
Scatter half of the cranberries evenly over the sweet potato layer.
In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper for about 30 seconds until sugar dissolves. Pour half over the layered sweet potatoes and cranberries.
Repeat layering with remaining sweet potatoes, cranberries, and cream mixture. Press down gently to compact.
Sprinkle shredded Gruyère cheese evenly over the top, then finish with breadcrumbs.
Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown, edges are bubbling, and cream is set in center.
Let gratin rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to help layers set.
Notes
Use a mandoline slicer for even 1/4-inch sweet potato slices to ensure uniform cooking.
Can substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and plant-based cheese for dairy-free version.
Gruyère can be replaced with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or feta cheese.
Can be assembled a day in advance and baked just before serving.
For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
To freeze: assemble completely but don’t bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed, adding 5-10 extra minutes.