Prep Time: ~20 minutes
Bake Time: ~45–55 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: ~8 servings
Introduction
Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin is a festive, cozy side dish that combines tender sweet potatoes with tart cranberries and a golden, buttery topping. Perfect for holiday dinners, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this gratin brings vibrant flavor and beautiful color to your table.
Why This Dish Is So Loved
This gratin features naturally sweet potatoes that become soft and creamy when baked, balanced by juicy cranberries that add a bright, tart note. A rich crumb topping gives a satisfying contrast of texture. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a delightful way to elevate classic holiday sides.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Filling
- Sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- Fresh or frozen cranberries
- Brown sugar
- Butter
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Salt
- Optional: orange zest or juice
For the Topping
- Panko breadcrumbs or crushed pecans
- Brown sugar
- Butter, melted
- A pinch of cinnamon or spice
The Art of Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin
Great gratin depends on evenly sliced sweet potatoes, nestled with pockets of tart cranberries, and baked until tender and bubbling. The topping forms a crisp, caramelized layer that contrasts perfectly with the creamy base. A touch of citrus brightens the overall dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a baking dish with a little butter.
2. Layer the Sweet Potatoes
Arrange a layer of sliced sweet potatoes in the bottom of the dish.
3. Add Cranberries & Spices
Sprinkle cranberries over the sweet potatoes.
Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and optional orange zest together; sprinkle over the layers.
4. Add Butter
Dot the top with small pieces of butter as you build layers.
5. Repeat Layers
Continue layering sweet potatoes, cranberries, and spice mixture until the dish is filled.
6. Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs (or chopped pecans), brown sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of cinnamon.
7. Add Topping
Spread the crumb mixture evenly over the sweet potato and cranberry layers.
8. Bake
Cover with foil and bake 30–35 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 10–20 minutes, until sweet potatoes are tender and topping is golden brown.
9. Cool & Serve
Let the gratin rest for a few minutes before serving warm.
Tips for Best Results
- Slice sweet potatoes uniformly so they cook evenly.
- Use fresh orange zest to brighten sweetness.
- Cover during the first bake to help soften the potatoes.
- Swap panko for pecans for a nutty topping.
- Add a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweet warmth.
Creative Variations
- Maple Cranberry Gratin: mix maple syrup into the filling.
- Savory Twist: add rosemary or thyme with less sugar.
- Marshmallow Top: add mini marshmallows in the final minutes of baking for a sweet finish.
- Nut Crumble: use almonds or walnuts instead of panko.
- Citrus Burst: add a splash of orange juice in the filling.
Storage & Freshness
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
Sweet Potato Cranberry Gratin is a festive, flavorful side dish that pairs creamy sweet potatoes with bright cranberries and a crunchy, buttery topping. It’s perfect for holiday feasts or cozy family dinners and brings both color and warmth to the table.
