Indulgent Potato Leek Gratin: Comfort Food Bliss Awaits

Published: February 6, 2026

by Clare

Why is Potato Leek Gratin a Must-Try?

Comforting warmth: The blend of creamy Yukon Gold potatoes and tender leeks creates a dish that wraps you in cozy, nostalgic flavors.
Easy preparation: You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to layer and bake this delightful casserole with minimal effort.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this gratin transforms any meal into a memorable experience, turning even the pickiest eaters into fans.
Versatile deliciousness: Pair it with roasted vegetables or a zesty salad for a well-rounded feast—options are endless! Don’t forget to check out my Greek Yogurt Potato Salad for a refreshing side.
Gourmet flair: Impress your guests with this seemingly gourmet dish that elevates everyday dinners to culinary delights.

Potato Leek Gratin Ingredients

• Get ready to create a comforting masterpiece with these key ingredients for Potato Leek Gratin!

For the Gratin

Yukon Gold Potatoes – Offers a creamy texture and holds up beautifully in the oven; slice thin for even cooking.
Leeks – Brings a mild, sweet flavor; be sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any hidden grit.
Unsalted Butter – Perfect for sautéing leeks, adding richness and depth to the dish.
Heavy Cream – Creates a luscious sauce that binds the flavors together; swap for Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
Garlic Powder – Adds a subtle kick; fresh garlic can be used for an even more vibrant taste.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Delivers a gooey, cheesy topping; consider blending with other cheeses for added depth.

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

Fresh Herbs (like Thyme or Rosemary) – Elevates your gratin with aromatic notes; sprinkle between layers for a delightful twist.
Additional Vegetables (spinach or mushrooms) – Enhances nutrition and adds interesting textures; layer them in for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Potato Leek Gratin

Preheat your oven: Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s perfectly heated when you’re ready to bake.
Prepare the ingredients: Thinly slice 2 lbs of Yukon Gold potatoes, keeping them around 1/8-inch thick for even cooking, and wash the leeks thoroughly to remove any grit.
Sauté the leeks: Melt 4 tbsp of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cleaned leeks and cook until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Create the creamy mixture: Stir in 2 cups of heavy cream along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Layer the components: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the leek mixture. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and top with the remaining cream mixture.
Add the cheese: Generously sprinkle 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top, ensuring every morsel will have that delicious gooey goodness.
Bake the gratin: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme for an aromatic finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Potato Leek Au Gratin are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Simply layer your Yukon Gold potatoes and leek mixture in a greased baking dish, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This helps preserve the flavors while also preventing the potatoes from browning. When you’re ready to serve, remove the cover, sprinkle with cheese, and bake directly from the fridge, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly. Enjoy the ease of having a delicious comfort food ready for your family!

What to Serve with Potato Leek Gratin?

Indulge your senses with complementary dishes that elevate your beautiful Potato Leek Gratin into a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Crispy Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the creamy richness, adding a refreshing crunch.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized bites lend an earthy flavor that harmonizes with the gratin’s creaminess, creating a delightful contrast.
Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up the luscious cream sauce and balancing the meal with its satisfying crunch.
Herbed Quinoa: Light and nutty, quinoa infused with fresh herbs adds a healthy touch that complements the gratin beautifully, making it a well-rounded dish.
Easy Roasted Carrots: The natural sweetness of roasted carrots enhances the savory elements of the gratin, creating a lovely taste harmony on your plate.
Chardonnay: Pair your meal with a chilled glass of Chardonnay, as its crisp acidity beautifully balances the hearty, cheesy flavors of the gratin.
Lemon Sorbet: A light, refreshing dessert to cleanse the palate after the rich gratin, leaving a zesty finish to your dining experience.

Expert Tips for Potato Leek Gratin

Even Slices: Ensure uniform thickness while slicing the Yukon Gold potatoes; this helps them cook evenly and prevents any undercooked bites.
Layer Wisely: Consider adding a bit of cheese between layers for extra flavor and creaminess; it enhances the overall taste of your Potato Leek Gratin.
Watch the Baking: Keep an eye on the gratin towards the end of the baking time; removing the foil too early can lead to burning, while covering it too long can make the top soggy.
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently to maintain that delicious creamy texture.
Experimentation: Don’t hesitate to explore creative options like adding fresh herbs or different cheese varieties; this can elevate your classic Potato Leek Gratin to a new level!

Potato Leek Gratin Variations

Embrace the opportunity to make this comforting dish your own with delightful twists and substitutions!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich, non-dairy option that still brings creaminess.
Cheesy Delight: Experiment with Gruyère or fontina cheese instead of cheddar for a gourmet touch.
Veggie Boost: Layer in sautéed mushrooms or freshly wilted spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that will surprise your taste buds.
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh thyme or dill into the cream mixture for an aromatic herbal twist.
Sweet Potato Alternative: Swap Yukon Golds with sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor that’s equally satisfying.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil on top before baking for a crunchy finish.
French Flair: Top with a drizzle of truffle oil before serving to give a luxurious finish that’s hard to resist.

How to Store and Freeze Potato Leek Gratin

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
Freezer: You can freeze the Potato Leek Gratin for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes, covered with foil, to retain moisture.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven instead of the microwave to preserve the texture and creaminess of the dish.

Potato Leek Gratin Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for Potato Leek Gratin?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choice because they have a creamy texture and hold up beautifully during baking. Make sure to slice them thinly, about 1/8-inch thick, for even cooking.

How should I store leftover Potato Leek Gratin?
You can store any leftover Potato Leek Gratin in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly.

Can I freeze Potato Leek Gratin?
Yes! You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

How do I properly thaw and reheat a frozen Potato Leek Gratin?
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen gratin, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) covered with foil for 30-40 minutes until heated through. This method will keep it moist and delicious!

Can pets eat Potato Leek Gratin?
Be careful! While the ingredients like potatoes are generally safe for pets, leeks are part of the allium family and can be toxic to dogs and cats. It’s best to keep this dish away from your furry friends to ensure their safety.

What can I do if my gratin is too watery?
If you find your Potato Leek Gratin is too watery, it’s likely from the cream or moisture content in the leeks. To remedy this, you can try cooking it a bit longer without the foil to allow extra moisture to evaporate. Another tip is to drain excess liquid before layering in your baking dish next time.