Mary Berry dauphinoise potato recipe is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. This classic French dish features thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, garlicky cream sauce, with a golden, crispy topping that makes every bite irresistible. Unlike traditional gratin recipes, this version skips any pre-boiling, allowing the potatoes to absorb all the flavor directly in the baking dish.
This dish is a fantastic side for special occasions, pairing beautifully with roast meats, poultry, or even a simple green salad. Whether you’re making it for a Sunday roast, a dinner party, or just as a comforting treat, these dauphinoise potatoes will impress with their luxurious texture and deep, savory flavor.
Recipe at a Glance
Before you begin, here are the key details:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Resting Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
- Dietary Suitability: Vegetarian, gluten-free
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 pounds (900g) waxy potatoes (e.g., Yukon Gold or Maris Piper)
- 2 cups (500ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (250ml) whole milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup (100g) grated Gruyère cheese (or cheddar for a milder option)
- ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing the dish)
Substitutes and Optional Ingredients
- Milk alternative: Use half-and-half instead of whole milk for a slightly lighter version.
- Cheese swap: Swap Gruyère for cheddar, Emmental, or Comté based on your preference.
- Garlic boost: Add roasted garlic for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need for Mary Berry Dauphinoise Potatoes
To ensure smooth preparation, gather these essential tools:
- Mandoline or sharp knife (for slicing potatoes evenly)
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch (or similar) baking dish
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Aluminum foil
Mary Berry Dauphinoise Potatoes Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Time needed: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Making Mary Berry Dauphinoise Potatoes is simple! Just follow these easy steps:
- Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Slice the potatoes
Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds (about ⅛ inch thick).
- Prepare the cream mixture
In a saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream, milk, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Heat gently until warm but not boiling.
- Layer the potatoes
Arrange half of the potato slices in the baking dish, slightly overlapping them. Pour half of the warm cream mixture over the top and sprinkle with half of the Gruyère cheese.
- Repeat the layers
Add the remaining potatoes, followed by the rest of the cream mixture and Gruyère cheese.
- Bake covered
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Add the topping
Remove the foil, sprinkle Parmesan over the top, and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
- Let it rest
Allow the dish to sit for 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.
Step-Specific Tips or Notes
- For extra crispy topping, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
- If the potatoes aren’t fully tender, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking with a knife.
- Avoid slicing too thickly, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
Nutrition Facts & Dietary Info
Each serving provides a rich and satisfying balance of fats, carbs, and protein:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Sugar | 4g |
This dish is naturally gluten-free but contains dairy.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Incredibly creamy texture. The slow baking allows the potatoes to soak up all the flavors.
- Minimal prep work. No need to pre-cook the potatoes—just slice and bake.
- Perfect for entertaining. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or vegetarian mains.
Pro Tips for Perfect Mary Berry Dauphinoise Potatoes
- Use waxy potatoes. They hold their shape better than starchy varieties like russets.
- Warm the cream mixture. This prevents temperature shock and ensures even cooking.
- Let it rest before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken and flavors to develop fully.
Fun Variations & Ingredient Swaps
- Add caramelized onions between the layers for a subtle sweetness.
- Infuse the cream with fresh thyme or rosemary for an herbal touch.
- Include crispy bacon or pancetta for a smoky, savory boost.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Skipping the resting time. Cutting into it too soon will cause the sauce to be runny.
- Using cold dairy. Cold milk and cream can cause uneven cooking.
- Overloading with cheese. Too much cheese can overpower the dish rather than complement it.
How to Store & Serve Mary Berry Dauphinoise Potatoes
Storing
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: While possible, freezing may alter the texture. If necessary, freeze for up to 1 month and reheat in the oven.
Reheating
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally to prevent uneven heating.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside roast chicken, lamb, or beef for a classic pairing.
- Enjoy as a luxurious vegetarian main with a crisp green salad.
- Pair with steamed green beans or asparagus for a balanced plate.
Related Recipe: How to make Mary Berry Potato Salad
Mary Berry Dauphinoise Potato Recipe FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it when ready, adding an extra 10 minutes to the cook time.
Why are my potatoes not fully cooked?
This often happens if the slices are too thick or the oven temperature varies. Use a mandoline for even slices and check for doneness by inserting a knife—it should slide in easily.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the dish will be slightly less creamy. To compensate, add an extra tablespoon of butter to the cream mixture.
Conclusion
Mary Berry dauphinoise potato recipe is the ultimate indulgence, combining tender, creamy layers with a crispy, cheesy topping. Whether you’re serving them for a festive feast or a cozy family dinner, they’re guaranteed to elevate any meal. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a side dish that’s both luxurious and surprisingly simple to make!