Potato and Salmon Gratin Recipe

Potato and Salmon Gratin Recipe: A Creamy and Comforting Delight

Savor the comforting flavors of this Potato and Salmon Gratin Recipe with Crème Fraîche, a creamy, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Combining tender potatoes, rich salmon, and a luscious layer of crème fraîche, this recipe is sure to impress your guests while being simple to prepare.

Ingredients for Potato and Salmon Gratin

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people, making it a perfect centerpiece for a cozy meal.

For the Gratin:

8 to 10 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
200 g (7 oz) smoked salmon, cut into strips
1 cup (100 g) grated Gruyère cheese (or your favorite cheese)
3 tablespoons crème fraîche
½ cup (120 ml) milk
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh chives or parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C).
Grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Prepare the Potatoes

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the sliced potatoes and parboil for 10 minutes, or until slightly tender but not fully cooked.
Drain and let the potatoes cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Gratin

Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the baking dish.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Add a layer of smoked salmon strips on top of the potatoes.
Dot with a tablespoon of crème fraîche and sprinkle half of the grated Gruyère cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, salmon, crème fraîche, and cheese, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

4. Add Milk for Creaminess

Pour the milk evenly over the layered gratin to keep it moist and creamy during baking.

5. Bake the Gratin

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once baked, let the gratin rest for 5 minutes to set.
Sprinkle with chopped fresh chives or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Serve hot with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Why You’ll Love This Potato and Salmon Gratin

Rich and Creamy Texture: Crème fraîche and Gruyère cheese create a luxurious, velvety consistency.
Perfect Flavor Balance: Smoky salmon complements the tender potatoes for a harmonious bite.
Easy Yet Elegant: Simple ingredients come together for a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
Versatile: Ideal as a main course or served as a hearty side dish.

Tips for a Perfect Gratin

1. Use Waxy Potatoes

Choose potatoes like Yukon Gold or Charlotte for the best texture; they hold their shape well and absorb the creamy flavors.

2. Slice Potatoes Evenly

Use a mandoline slicer for thin, uniform slices to ensure even cooking.

3. Adjust the Cheese

Swap Gruyère for cheddar, Parmesan, or Emmental if preferred. Each adds a unique flavor.

4. Avoid Over-Salting

Smoked salmon is naturally salty, so season the layers sparingly to prevent an overly salty dish.

Variations and Serving Ideas

Add Vegetables

Include sautéed leeks, spinach, or zucchini between the layers for extra flavor and nutrients.

Try Fresh Salmon

Replace smoked salmon with fresh salmon fillets (pre-cooked or thinly sliced).

Make It Spicy

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the crème fraîche for a hint of heat.

Pair With

Serve alongside a fresh green salad, roasted asparagus, or a crusty baguette for a complete meal.

FAQs About Potato and Salmon Gratin

1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the gratin up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh before serving.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

3. Can I Freeze Potato Gratin?

While freezing is possible, the texture of the potatoes may become slightly grainy. If freezing, bake it first, then cool completely before freezing.

4. Can I Use a Different Fish?

Absolutely! Try substituting the smoked salmon with trout, haddock, or even a vegetarian alternative like mushrooms.

A Luxurious and Comforting Dish for Any Occasion

This Potato and Salmon Gratin with Crème Fraîche is the ultimate combination of creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this gratin is a foolproof crowd-pleaser.

Explore more tried-and-tested recipes HERE!

Give it a try, and savor every indulgent bite!