A creamy, cheesy potato dish with thin layers of tender potatoes and a golden, bubbly top—made easily in the air fryer.
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Air Fry Time: 35–45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 kg potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream (or half cream + half milk)
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup grated Gruyère, cheddar, or mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
- ½ tsp nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash, peel (optional), and slice potatoes into very thin slices (about ⅛ inch / 3 mm).
- Do not rinse the potatoes after slicing—the starch helps create a creamy texture.
Step 2: Make the Cream Mixture
- In a bowl, combine:
- Heavy cream
- Minced garlic
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Thyme
- Nutmeg
- Mix well.
Step 3: Layer the Gratin
- Grease an air fryer-safe baking dish with butter.
- Arrange a layer of potato slices.
- Pour a little cream mixture over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle with some cheese.
- Repeat the layers until all potatoes are used.
- Finish with the remaining cream and top with cheese.
Step 4: Air Fry
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Preheat the air fryer to 160°C (320°F) for 3 minutes.
First Cook:
- Air fry covered for 25–30 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Final Browning:
- Remove the foil.
- Increase temperature to 180°C (350°F).
- Air fry for 8–12 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Rest & Serve
- Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips
- Use a mandoline slicer for evenly thin potato layers.
- Avoid cutting potatoes too thick, as they may stay firm in the center.
- For extra richness, add a layer of caramelized onions between the potatoes.
- If your air fryer dish is deep, increase the covered cooking time by 5–10 minutes.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer at 160°C (320°F) for 5–8 minutes until warm and crispy.

