Mary Berry Potato And Leek Gratin
Mary Berry’s Potato and Leek Gratin is a classic baked dish made with layers of thinly sliced potatoes and cooked leeks, smothered in a creamy sauce and topped with cheese. The potatoes turn tender as they bake, absorbing the flavors of the leeks and cream, while the cheese on top adds a golden, bubbly finish.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 60
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
- 900g potatoes (such as Yukon Gold or Maris Piper) – Thinly sliced for tenderness and creaminess.
- 2 medium leeks (sliced and cleaned) – Adds a subtle, savory flavor.
- 300ml double cream – Creates a rich, creamy sauce.
- 100ml whole milk – Lightens the cream sauce slightly.
- 1 garlic clove (crushed) – Adds depth of flavor.
- Salt and pepper – For seasoning.
- 100g grated Gruyère or Cheddar cheese – Melts and browns beautifully on top.
Optional
- Fresh thyme or rosemary – For a hint of herby flavor.
- Pinch of nutmeg – Adds a warm, subtle spice to the cream.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly using a mandoline or a sharp knife, about 3mm thick. Set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Leeks
In a large sauté pan, heat a little butter or oil over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook gently until soft, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Mixture
In a bowl, mix the double cream, whole milk, crushed garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Layer the Potatoes and Leeks
In a greased baking dish, add a layer of potato slices, overlapping slightly. Top with a layer of cooked leeks. Repeat this layering process until you’ve used all the potatoes and leeks, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
Step 6: Pour Over the Cream Mixture
Carefully pour the cream mixture over the layered potatoes and leeks, allowing it to seep down through the layers.
Step 7: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Gruyère or Cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Step 8: Bake the Gratin
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbling.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the gratin to cool slightly before serving. This helps the dish set and makes it easier to slice.