Cajun Sweet Potato Gratin (Print)

Spicy Cajun flavors meet creamy sweet potatoes for a standout vegetarian side—golden, comforting, and satisfying.

# Ingredients:

→ 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, for extra heat)

→ Garnish

14 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

# Directions:

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

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Uses widely available pantry and fresh ingredients
  • Layers of flavor from creamy cheese to vibrant Cajun spice
  • Vegetarian and gluten free so many can enjoy it
  • Perfect make ahead dish for holidays or meal prep
02 -
  • High in fiber and nutrients from sweet potatoes
  • Naturally gluten free
  • Excellent for meal prep or holiday tables
03 -
  • Always slice sweet potatoes thin and evenly. A mandoline makes a big difference for even cooking
  • Letting the gratin rest before slicing gives clean squares and beautiful layers
  • Never skip freshly grated cheese. It melts more smoothly and browns more evenly than pre shredded

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