Cajun Sweet Potato Gratin (Printable)

Spicy-sweet potatoes baked with creamy cheeses and Cajun spices make a standout vegetarian side or main.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2.5 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Dairy

04 - 1 cup heavy cream
05 - 1/2 cup whole milk
06 - 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
07 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Spices & Seasonings

09 - 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
10 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
12 - 1 teaspoon salt
13 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

→ Garnish

14 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

# Method:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.
02 - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add sliced onion and garlic; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Remove from heat.
03 - In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if using.
04 - Arrange half the sweet potato slices, overlapping slightly, in the prepared dish.
05 - Spread half the sautéed onions and garlic over sweet potatoes; sprinkle half the Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses.
06 - Repeat with remaining sweet potatoes, onions, and cheeses.
07 - Evenly pour the cream mixture over the layers. Press gently so the cream seeps between slices.
08 - Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
09 - Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until top is golden brown and potatoes are tender.
10 - Allow dish to rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses everyday ingredients with a Southern twist
  • Adaptable for vegetarian or gluten free diets
  • Feeds a crowd and holds well for gatherings
  • Layered cheesy richness with just the right touch of heat
02 -
  • Packed with fiber from sweet potatoes and loaded with antioxidants
  • Vegetarian and easily adapted for gluten free or vegan diets
  • Stores well and even better flavor the next day
  • Gruyère cheese is my absolute favorite here because it melts so beautifully and gives a luxurious nuttiness.
03 -
  • Always slice sweet potatoes thin and even for the creamiest texture. A mandoline is your secret weapon here.
  • Do not skip the resting step after baking. It helps the gratin set and allows flavors to mingle.
  • For a punchier Cajun flavor, sprinkle a little extra Cajun seasoning on top before baking uncovered.

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