Cacio e Pepe Potato Gratin: The Ultimate Creamy Comfort Dish
There are dishes that comfort, and then there are dishes that completely seduce your senses. This Cacio e Pepe Potato Gratin falls firmly into the second category. Inspired by the iconic Roman pasta, this luxurious baked potato dish transforms humble ingredients into something undeniably elegant, rich, and deeply satisfying. Creamy layers of Yukon Gold potatoes, infused with freshly cracked black pepper and nutty Parmesan cheese, bake into a golden, bubbling masterpiece that feels both rustic and refined.
Perfect for family dinners, holiday tables, or whenever you crave next-level comfort food, this gratin is proof that simplicity—when done right—can be extraordinary. No complicated techniques. No fussy ingredients. Just bold flavor, creamy texture, and irresistible aroma.
Ingredients & Their Purpose
- Yukon Gold Potatoes (2 ½ pounds) – These potatoes are the heart of the dish. Their naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture make them ideal for gratins, holding their shape while becoming tender and luscious as they bake.
- Heavy Cream (1 ½ cups) – Rich and velvety, heavy cream creates the luxurious sauce that binds the layers together, delivering indulgence in every bite.
- Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated) – The soul of cacio e pepe. Parmesan adds savory depth, nuttiness, and umami, balancing the richness of the cream beautifully.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper (2 teaspoons) – Essential and bold, black pepper provides warmth and complexity, giving this dish its signature Roman character.
- Kosher Salt (1 teaspoon) – Enhances every layer and ensures the potatoes are seasoned all the way through.
- Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons) – Used for greasing the baking dish, butter adds subtle richness and prevents sticking while contributing to the gratin’s golden edges.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with softened butter to ensure easy serving and rich flavor from the base up. -
Layer the Potatoes
Arrange one-third of the thinly sliced potatoes across the bottom of the dish, overlapping slightly to create an even foundation. -
Create the Creamy Sauce
In a small saucepan, gently warm the heavy cream over medium heat until just warm—never boiling. Remove from heat and stir in ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly ground black pepper, and salt until smooth and well combined. -
Build the Layers
Pour one-third of the cream mixture evenly over the potatoes. Repeat the layering process twice more, finishing with a generous coating of cream on top. -
Cover and Bake
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, allowing the potatoes to steam and soften. -
Uncover and Finish
Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup Parmesan cheese evenly across the surface, and return to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 15–20 minutes, until golden brown and bubbling. -
Rest and Serve
Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and ensures perfect slices.
Why This Recipe Is So Loved
This gratin is adored because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It honors the essence of classic cacio e pepe while embracing the comfort and heartiness of a traditional potato bake. The balance of creamy, cheesy richness with assertive black pepper makes every bite crave-worthy, comforting, and deeply satisfying.
Pro Tips for Gratin Perfection
- Slice evenly: Use a mandoline for uniform potato slices, ensuring even cooking.
- Grate fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese won’t melt as smoothly or taste as rich.
- Season boldly: Black pepper is the star—don’t be shy.
- Rest before cutting: This prevents a soupy texture and keeps layers intact.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cacio e Pepe Potato Gratin alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or seared salmon for a complete and elegant meal. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a vegetarian spread, enjoy it with roasted vegetables or sautéed greens.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that feels indulgent yet effortless, familiar yet elevated, this Cacio e Pepe Potato Gratin is your answer. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll create a show-stopping side—or even a main—that delivers creamy comfort, bold flavor, and timeless appeal. This is the kind of recipe that earns repeat requests, empty plates, and a permanent place in your kitchen repertoire.
