Name: Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin for a Cozy Holiday Feast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Sweet Potatoes (peeled and sliced); 2 cups Fresh Cranberries (or thawed frozen cranberries); 1 cup Heavy Cream (can substitute with coconut cream for vegan option); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (use less for a less sweet dish); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (adds warmth); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Pepper; 1 cup Gruyère Cheese (can substitute with Cheddar, Mozzarella, or Feta); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (can use gluten-free breadcrumbs)

As I was slicing sweet potatoes for dinner last week, a lovely aroma filled my kitchen, igniting memories of festive family gatherings. That’s when the idea for this Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin was born—a vibrant dish perfect for the holidays. The creamy sweetness of sweet potatoes perfectly complements the tart burst of fresh cranberries, creating a delightful balance that’s bound to wow your guests. One of the best parts? This recipe is a breeze to prepare, making it ideal for those busy days when you want to impress without all the fuss. Plus, it accommodates various diets, whether you’re aiming for vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Are you ready to add a splash of festive flair to your table?

Why Is This Gratin a Must-Try?

Exciting Flavor Fusion: The combination of sweet potatoes and fresh cranberries creates an irresistible contrast, leading to a dish that excites the palate with every bite.

Versatile Options: With simple substitutions like coconut cream for a vegan twist or gluten-free breadcrumbs, this recipe caters to various dietary needs, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy it.

Quick and Easy Preparation: You’ll appreciate the straightforward steps that allow you to whip up this delicious gratin in no time—perfect for busy holiday seasons!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether at a holiday dinner or family gathering, this dish is sure to become a hit, making it an ideal side that complements a variety of mains.

Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this dish in advance and just pop it in the oven, saving you time and stress during the festivities! For more tasty options, consider exploring our delicious vegetarian alternatives that can elevate your holiday table even further.

Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin Ingredients

For the Gratin

Sweet Potatoes – Provides the base and sweetness; peel and slice for even cooking.
Fresh Cranberries – Adds tartness and flavor; if unavailable, frozen cranberries work well when thawed and drained.
Heavy Cream – Gives a rich, creamy texture; swap with coconut cream for a vegan version.
Brown Sugar – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors; use less if you prefer a less sweet dish.
Cinnamon – Provides warmth and depth of flavor; a little goes a long way for that festive touch.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for best flavor enhancement.
Gruyère Cheese – Adds creaminess and a flavorful topping; feel free to substitute with Cheddar, Mozzarella, or Feta if needed.
Breadcrumbs – Creates a crispy topping; use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

This Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin offers a delightful blend of flavors, making it a festive favorite for all gatherings!

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 is crucial for ensuring your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin bakes evenly and develops a beautiful golden crust. Meanwhile, gather your baking dish and greasing spray or butter, which will be essential for layering the gratin later.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into thin rounds, about 1/4-inch thick to ensure even cooking. In a large pot, bring water to a boil, then carefully add the sweet potato slices. Boil for 10–15 minutes, or until tender but not falling apart; you want them to hold their shape in the gratin.

Step 3: Layer the Sweet Potatoes
Once drained, place half of the cooked sweet potato slices in the greased baking dish, arranging them slightly overlapping for even coverage. The vibrant orange color will create a beautiful base for your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin. Make sure to pack them snugly to maximize flavor absorption during baking.

Step 4: Add the Cranberries
Spread half of the fresh cranberries evenly over the layer of sweet potatoes. The tartness of the cranberries will provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the potatoes. If you’re using frozen cranberries, ensure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in your dish.

Step 5: Mix the Cream Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until well combined. This creamy mixture will tie all the flavors together and give your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin its luscious texture. Pour half of this mixture evenly over the layered sweet potatoes and cranberries, ensuring a rich coating.

Step 6: Repeat Layering
Next, repeat the layering process with the remaining sweet potato slices and the rest of the cranberries. This double layering will enhance the flavors and create a stunning presentation for your own Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin masterpiece. Pour the remaining cream mixture over the top, ensuring every layer is moistened.

Step 7: Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs
Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese generously over the top of the gratin, followed by an even layer of breadcrumbs. The cheese will melt and form a creamy layer, while the breadcrumbs will crisp up beautifully in the oven, creating that coveted texture contrast that elevates this dish.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Carefully place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye out for visual cues; the gratin should be firm yet juicy. Allow your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin to cool slightly before serving, which will help the layers settle and make serving easier.

What to Serve with Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin

As the comforting aroma of this gratin wafts through your kitchen, complement your holiday meal with these delicious pairings that enhance every flavor.

Roast Chicken: Juicy, herb-infused roast chicken brings a savory contrast that balances the dish’s sweetness perfectly. This pairing creates a harmonious blend of flavors on your plate.
Garlic Green Beans: The crisp tenderness of sautéed green beans adds a fresh, bright element, while garlic infuses an enticing aroma. Together, they uplift the richness of the gratin.
Maple Glazed Carrots: Tender, sweet carrots glazed in maple syrup bring out the sweetness of the sweet potatoes, forging a deliciously cohesive side dish experience.
Quinoa Salad: A light, nutty quinoa salad bursting with fresh herbs and seasonal vegetables enhances the meal’s overall freshness, providing a delightful grain base.
Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of tangy cranberry sauce adds a zesty kick that complements the sweet-tart cranberries in the gratin, elevating the festive presentation.
Apple Cider: Pair your meal with a chilled glass of crisp apple cider. Its subtle sweetness and acidity work beautifully to cleanse the palate between bites.
Pumpkin Pie: Finish off with a slice of spiced pumpkin pie for dessert; its warm spices will echo the cinnamon in your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin. What a cozy way to wrap up your holiday feast!

Expert Tips for Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin

Choose Sweet Potatoes Wisely: Opt for uniform-sized sweet potatoes to ensure even cooking. Avoid overly large ones that may take too long to boil.
Layering Secrets: Be generous with layering! Layering tightly helps the flavor meld beautifully, creating a more flavorful Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin.
Cream Substitution: For a vegan version, using coconut cream instead of heavy cream is a great way to maintain the creaminess while keeping it dairy-free.
Breadcrumb Crunch: Toast the breadcrumbs lightly before topping the gratin for extra crunch! This adds a delightful texture contrast when baked.
Baking Time Monitoring: Keep a close eye for that golden-brown finish to avoid overbaking. Every oven is slightly different, so adjust baking times as needed.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the gratin the day before—just assemble, cover, and refrigerate. When ready, pop it in the oven for an easy last-minute side!

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal planning! You can prepare the entire gratin up to 24 hours in advance by assembling the dish, covering it with plastic wrap, and refrigerating it until you’re ready to bake. This method helps maintain the flavors and quality, as the sweet potatoes will absorb the creamy mixture overnight. When it’s time to serve, simply remove the plastic wrap, sprinkle with cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time. You’ll have a festive side dish that tastes just as delicious with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the gratin to cool completely before sealing to maintain its texture.

Freezer: Freeze portions of the Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes until warmed through and crispy on top. You can cover it with foil to prevent excessive browning if needed.

Make-Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day prior and stored in the fridge before baking. Just pop it in the oven when ready to serve for an effortless holiday treat!

Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin! Each variation is a delightful twist, bringing new flavors to your festive table.

Vegan Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and swap out cheese for a dairy-free alternative for a delicious vegan version.
Cheesy Goodness: Replace Gruyère cheese with Cheddar or Mozzarella for a different flavor profile—each will melt beautifully while providing its unique taste.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the breadcrumb topping for an extra layer of crunch and nuttiness, elevating the texture of your gratin.
Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper while mixing the cream for a surprising spice that balances the sweetness.
Sweet & Savory Twist: Mix in sautéed onions or leeks with the sweet potatoes for a savory depth that complements the sweet and tart elements perfectly.
Herb Infusion: Boost the flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cream mixture, infusing your dish with aromatic notes that dance on the palate.
Cranberry Swap: Consider using dried cranberries or cherries for a sweeter, chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy potatoes and fresh cranberry tartness.
Gluten-Free Options: Use crushed gluten-free crackers or ground almond flour instead of breadcrumbs to maintain that delightful crispy topping without gluten.

Each variation is sure to bring joy to your holiday table! And if you’re looking for more delicious, diverse options, why not check out our vegetarian alternatives for even more inspiration?

Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin Recipe FAQs

What type of sweet potatoes should I use?
Absolutely! Opt for firm, uniform-sized sweet potatoes with smooth skins. Avoid those with dark spots or blemishes, as they may not cook evenly. I often go for the orange-fleshed varieties, as they provide the best flavor and sweetness for this Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin.

How should I store leftovers?
Store your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Once cooled completely, cover it securely to help retain moisture. Reheat portions in the oven to maintain that lovely texture, aiming for about 20–25 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Can I freeze this gratin?
Absolutely! Portion your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to keep it fresh for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then seal and label. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Are there any dietary considerations for allergies?
Yes, there are a few things to keep in mind! If you’re serving guests with dairy allergies, use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative. For gluten-free needs, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always check ingredient labels, especially for pre-packaged items like breadcrumbs that may contain hidden allergens.

What should I do if my gratin is too watery?
If you find your gratin is too watery after baking, don’t fret! This can happen when excess moisture from the sweet potatoes or cranberries is released. For next time, you can take extra care by slightly undercooking the sweet potato slices when boiling. This means they will hold their shape better in the oven.

Can I make this gratin a day in advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare your Sweet Potato & Cranberry Gratin a day in advance by assembling it up to the baking step. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a delicious and stress-free side dish!