Luxembourgish Leek and Potato Gratin
A comforting and hearty gratin featuring layers of thinly sliced potatoes and tender leeks, baked in a creamy sauce with a hint of nutmeg. This dish showcases staple Luxembourgish ingredients.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2.5 lb Potatoes(peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick))
- 3 large Leeks(white and light green parts only, washed and thinly sliced)
- 3 tbsp Butter(divided)
- 1 clove Garlic(minced)
- 1.25 cup Heavy cream
- 1 cup Milk
- 0.25 tsp Nutmeg(freshly grated or ground)
- 1.5 tsp Salt
- 0.75 tsp Black pepper
- 1.5 cup Gruyère cheese(grated)
- 0.75 cup Parmesan cheese(grated)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter.
- 2
In a large skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the leeks are softened and translucent, about 8-10 minutes. Do not let them brown.
- 3
Add the heavy cream, milk, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the leeks. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
- 4
Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the leek and cream mixture. Sprinkle with half of the Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses.
- 5
Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, leek mixture, and cheeses.
- 6
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 minutes.
- 7
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- 8
Let the gratin stand for 10-15 minutes before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure potatoes are sliced uniformly for even cooking.
- ✓Do not overcook the leeks in the initial sautéing step, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- ✓If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
🔄 Variations
- Add a layer of thinly sliced ham or cooked bacon for a non-vegetarian version.
- Incorporate a pinch of dried thyme or chives into the cream mixture.
- Use a different melting cheese like Emmental or a blend of Swiss cheeses.