Pesto Potatoes au Gratin is a flavorful twist on the classic French gratin, bringing together creamy layers of thinly sliced potatoes with the bold, aromatic taste of fresh pesto. This dish offers a unique fusion of rustic comfort and French elegance, making it a standout option for dinner parties, holidays, or cozy weeknight meals.
Traditionally, potatoes au gratin is a beloved French dish featuring potatoes baked in cream, often with a golden, cheesy crust. In this variation, the rich basil pesto adds depth and a vibrant green hue, transforming the dish into something extraordinary. Each layer of potato is brushed or tossed with pesto, then bathed in a creamy sauce and topped with cheese, resulting in a bubbling, golden casserole that smells as good as it tastes.
The dish is easy to prepare yet impressive in both flavor and presentation. You can use homemade or high-quality store-bought pesto—just make sure it’s packed with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan for the most authentic flavor. The cream balances the pesto’s intensity, while the melted cheese on top forms a satisfying, savory crust.
Pesto Potatoes au Gratin pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad, but it’s also hearty enough to shine as a main course. It’s a fantastic way to elevate simple ingredients like potatoes and cream with the bold, herbal punch of pesto.
This dish is a celebration of French technique and Mediterranean flavor—a culinary crossover that feels both familiar and fresh. Whether served at a formal dinner or a casual gathering, Pesto Potatoes au Gratin brings comfort, sophistication, and a little French flair to the table. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a favorite, loved for its rich texture, vibrant taste, and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
- 4 cups potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup cream
- 1/2 cup pesto store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the cream and pesto together until well blended.
- Layer half of the potatoes in a greased baking dish. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour half of the cream and pesto mixture over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, cream and pesto mixture, and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
I dunno, I think potatoes au gratin should just be cheese, not this pesto stuff. Didn’t enjoy it very much.
Super easy recipe! Just make sure to slice the potatoes thin, and it turns out great. My kids loved it!
Thanks for sharing! I’m always looking for easy recipes my kids will enjoy. Can’t wait to try it!
This was delicious! The pesto really gave it a unique flavor. Will definitely make again!