Sweet Potato Kale Gratin is a must-try comfort dish! This delightful recipe combines the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes and the robust flavor of kale, creating a rich and creamy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a cozy weeknight meal, this gratin stands out with its layered flavors and comforting texture. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the earthy taste of kale, creating a harmonious blend.
- Comforting Texture: With layers of creamy goodness and melted Gruyère cheese, each bite is pure comfort food bliss.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep work, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as a side dish during holidays and family gatherings—it’s sure to please everyone!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from kale and the goodness of sweet potatoes, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start preparing your Sweet Potato Kale Gratin, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish (9×13 inches)
- Skillet
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Grater
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of your gratin.
- Skillet: Perfect for sautéing kale quickly while retaining its vibrant color and nutrients.
Ingredients
To create this delectable Sweet Potato Kale Gratin, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Gratin
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs or 680 g), peeled and thinly sliced
- 4 cups kale, stems removed and chopped (about 1 bunch)
- 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated (about 100 g)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Sweet Potato Kale Gratin is a must-try comfort dish!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your gratin cooks evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and thinly slice the sweet potatoes using a sharp knife or mandoline. Set them aside while you prepare the kale.
Step 3: Sauté the Kale
Wash and chop the kale. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté it with a splash of water or olive oil for about 5-7 minutes until wilted. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Grease Your Baking Dish
Use olive oil to grease your 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and helps achieve a golden crust on your gratin.
Step 5: Layer Your Ingredients
In the greased baking dish, layer sweet potato slices followed by sautéed kale. Pour in some heavy cream mixed with minced garlic and sprinkle Gruyère cheese on top. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used up.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in your preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Step 7: Bake Uncovered
Remove the foil after 30 minutes. Continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top and tender throughout.
Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Let your gratin cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully for an even better taste experience!
How to Serve Sweet Potato Kale Gratin is a must-try comfort dish!
Sweet Potato Kale Gratin is a must-try comfort dish that offers warmth and satisfaction. Here are some delightful ways to serve this creamy, layered delight.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the gratin.
- Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and the tangy dressing balance out the sweet and creamy flavors.
Serve with Protein
- Grilled Chicken: A lightly seasoned grilled chicken breast adds a hearty protein element.
- Baked Fish: Flaky fish like salmon or cod provides a healthy contrast to the gratin’s richness.
Add Some Bread
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread can be perfect for scooping up the gratin.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are great for mopping up any creamy sauce left on your plate.
How to Perfect Sweet Potato Kale Gratin is a must-try comfort dish!
To ensure your Sweet Potato Kale Gratin turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Bold Layering: Layer sweet potatoes and kale evenly to ensure consistent cooking throughout.
- Bold Seasoning: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they enhance the flavors beautifully.
- Bold Cheese Choices: Try mixing Gruyère with other cheeses like cheddar for added depth of flavor.
- Bold Baking Time: Keep an eye on your dish as baking times can vary based on oven performance.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Kale Gratin is a must-try comfort dish!
Sweet Potato Kale Gratin pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal:
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overwhelming flavors.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts provide a nice crunch alongside the creamy gratin.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad brings texture and healthy grains to your plate.
- Herbed Rice Pilaf: Flavorful rice pilaf with herbs enhances the meal while keeping it light.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the rich gratin.
- Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower is a low-carb alternative that complements the gratin perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls will help you create the best Sweet Potato Kale Gratin. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Not slicing sweet potatoes evenly: If the slices are not uniform, they will cook unevenly. Use a mandoline slicer for consistent thickness.
- Skipping the sautéing step: Failing to sauté kale can lead to a rubbery texture. Always wilt the kale first to enhance its flavor and improve texture.
- Overloading on cheese: While cheese adds creaminess, too much can overpower other flavors. Stick to the recommended amount of Gruyère for balance.
- Not letting it rest before serving: Cutting into the gratin immediately can result in a messy dish. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes to set properly.
- Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Taste and adjust salt and pepper before baking for optimal flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Sweet Potato Kale Gratin in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Sweet Potato Kale Gratin is a must-try comfort dish!
- Portion out individual servings into freezer-safe containers.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for the best quality.
Reheating Sweet Potato Kale Gratin is a must-try comfort dish!
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat a small portion in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people have about making Sweet Potato Kale Gratin.
Can I use other greens instead of kale?
Yes, you can substitute spinach or Swiss chard if you prefer different greens. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Is Sweet Potato Kale Gratin suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Can I make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version of Sweet Potato Kale Gratin, use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives while keeping the flavors balanced.
How do I enhance the flavor of my gratin?
Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the taste of your Sweet Potato Kale Gratin. Experiment with spices for added depth!
Final Thoughts
Sweet Potato Kale Gratin is not only delicious but also versatile, making it a great addition to any meal. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste. Try this comforting dish today, and enjoy its rich flavors!

Sweet Potato Kale Gratin
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Sweet Potato Kale Gratin is a delicious comfort dish that combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of kale, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. This delightful recipe is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. The layers of tender sweet potatoes and sautéed kale are topped with melted Gruyère cheese, creating a satisfying meal that is as nutritious as it is comforting. Whether served as a hearty main course or an enticing side dish, this gratin promises to be a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and thinly sliced
- 4 cups kale, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and thinly slice the sweet potatoes.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped kale with a splash of water or olive oil until wilted (about 5-7 minutes).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Layer sweet potato slices followed by sautéed kale in the baking dish. Pour in heavy cream mixed with minced garlic and sprinkle Gruyère cheese on top; repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: For variations, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor or substituting spinach or Swiss chard for the kale. To make this dish vegan, use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.

