Cheesy Mini Potato Gratin Stacks (Muffin Tin)

These Cheesy Mini Potato Gratin Stacks are the kind of bite sized comfort food that disappears faster than you expect. Crisp edges, creamy centers, and layers of potatoes wrapped in melted cheese make every stack feel indulgent and special. Trust me, you’re going to love this, they look fancy but are surprisingly simple to pull together.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe came from wanting all the goodness of a classic potato gratin without committing to one big dish. Baking them in a muffin tin turns something cozy and rustic into neat little stacks that are perfect for sharing. The first time I made these, I planned them as a side dish, and they completely stole the show.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Potato gratin has French roots, traditionally baked low and slow with cream and cheese. These mini stacks are a modern twist, keeping the soul of the dish while making it easier to serve and more fun to eat. Same flavors, new format, and just as comforting.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Mini Potato Gratin Stacks (Muffin Tin)

There are so many reasons this recipe earns a permanent spot in your rotation, and now let’s dive into them.

Versatile: Works as a side dish, appetizer, or even a brunch addition.

Budget-Friendly: Potatoes and cheese stretch into something impressive.

Quick and Easy: Simple layering with no complicated steps.

Customizable: Swap herbs or cheeses to suit your taste.

Crowd-Pleasing: Crispy, cheesy potatoes are always a hit.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead and bake when needed.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat beautifully and stay creamy.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

A few small tips make these stacks truly shine.

• Use starchy potatoes so the layers hold together.
• Slice potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.
• Press the stacks gently to compact the layers before baking.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Having the right tools ready keeps things smooth and stress free.

Muffin Tin: Creates perfectly portioned stacks.
Mandoline or Sharp Knife: Helps slice potatoes evenly.
Small Saucepan: For warming the cream mixture.
Pastry Brush or Spray: Ensures easy release from the tin.

Ingredients in Cheesy Mini Potato Gratin Stacks (Muffin Tin)

Each ingredient works together to build rich flavor and texture.

1. Starchy Potatoes: 1.2 kilograms or 2.4 pounds, thinly sliced, forming the layered base.
2. Butter: 30 grams or 2 tablespoons, unsalted, adding richness.
3. Garlic: 2 cloves, finely minced, infusing savory depth.
4. Heavy Cream: 1 half cup, creating a creamy interior.
5. Fresh Thyme Leaves: 1 teaspoon, adding subtle herbal aroma.
6. Salt: 1 half teaspoon, seasoning the layers.
7. Black Pepper: To taste, adding gentle warmth.
8. Gruyere Cheese Slices: 75 grams or 2.5 ounces, cut to fit, creating melty layers.
9. Shredded Gruyere Cheese: 3 quarters cup, finishing the tops with golden melt.
10. Oil Spray: As needed, for greasing the tin.

Ingredient Substitutions

If needed, these swaps still work beautifully.

Gruyere Cheese: Emmental, fontina, or another good melting cheese.
Heavy Cream: Half and half for a lighter result.
Fresh Thyme: Dried thyme or a pinch of rosemary.

Ingredient Spotlight

Starchy Potatoes: These hold their shape and create creamy layers without falling apart.

Gruyere Cheese: Nutty, melty, and perfect for gratins thanks to its smooth melt.

Instructions for Making Cheesy Mini Potato Gratin Stacks (Muffin Tin)

Now let’s dive into the fun part and start stacking.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Heat the oven to 375°F and spray the muffin tin generously with oil.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, gently warm butter, cream, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper until fragrant.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Arrange thin potato slices into small stacks sized to fit the muffin cups.
4. Assemble the Dish: Place a few potato slices into each cup, add a square of cheese, then repeat layers.
5. Cook to Perfection: Spoon cream mixture over each stack and bake for 45 to 50 minutes until tender and golden.
6. Finishing Touches: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Rest briefly, then lift stacks out and serve warm.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The magic is in the layers. The edges crisp up against the tin, while the center stays creamy and tender. Gruyere melts into every slice, and thyme adds a subtle savory note that keeps the richness balanced.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few extra tips to keep things effortless.

• Use a mandoline for even slices.
• Cover loosely if tops brown too quickly.
• Let stacks rest before removing from the tin.

What to Avoid

These small missteps can affect results.

• Cutting potatoes too thick.
• Skipping the greasing step.
• Removing stacks too soon after baking.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12 stacks
Calories per serving: Approximately 210

Note: These values are approximate.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Stacks can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated. Bake just before serving. Leftovers store well for up to three days and reheat in the oven for best texture.

How to Serve Cheesy Mini Potato Gratin Stacks (Muffin Tin)

Serve alongside roasted vegetables, salads, or protein based mains. They also shine on holiday tables and brunch spreads.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftover stacks can be chopped and pan crisped for breakfast or served with eggs for a hearty start to the day.

Additional Tips

Season lightly at each layer rather than all at once for balanced flavor throughout.

Make It a Showstopper

Garnish with a few fresh thyme leaves and serve on a platter for an elegant presentation.

Variations to Try

• Add thin onion slices between layers.
• Use mixed cheeses for deeper flavor.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream.
• Make them extra crispy by baking a few minutes longer.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready.

2. What potatoes work best?

Starchy varieties hold and cream beautifully.

3. Can I use other cheeses?

Yes, any good melting cheese works.

4. Do I need a mandoline?

No, a sharp knife works fine.

5. Can these be frozen?

They freeze best after baking, then reheated.

6. How do I keep them from sticking?

Grease the muffin tin generously.

7. Are these good for holidays?

Absolutely, they are perfect for gatherings.

8. Can I make them dairy lighter?

Use less cheese and lighter cream.

9. Do kids like these?

Yes, they are very kid friendly.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use two muffin tins.

Conclusion

Cheesy Mini Potato Gratin Stacks (Muffin Tin) are everything you love about classic gratin in adorable, crispy edged portions. Rich, comforting, and endlessly impressive, this one’s a total game changer for sides and special occasions. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite. Would you like me to generate the tasty card next?

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