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Corn and Tomato Gratin

This vibrant corn and tomato gratin is a wonderful way to celebrate the produce of late summer. Combining juicy, thick-sliced tomatoes with sweet corn kernels simmered in a rich cream sauce, this vegetarian dish offers a beautiful contrast of textures. The addition of fresh basil and a golden parmesan breadcrumb topping provides a savoury, aromatic finish that elevates the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

Serve this comforting gratin as a substantial side dish for a Sunday roast or as a light main course alongside a crisp green salad. By draining the tomatoes beforehand, you ensure the sauce remains thick and velvety rather than watery. It is an excellent choice for alfresco dining or a family gathering, providing a sophisticated yet simple homemade meal that everyone will enjoy.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Corn and Tomato Gratin

  • 675g red or yellow tomatoes (4 medium), cut crosswise nto 1/2-inch-thick slices

  • 2 teaspoons salt

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

  • 950ml fresh corn kernels (from 6 to 8 ears)

  • 240ml whole milk

  • 120ml double cream

  • 475ml fresh bread crumbs (preferably from a day-old baguette

  • an 8-inch piece, including crust)

  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil

  • 30g finely grated parmesan (110g )

  • 3/4 stick (6 tablespoons ) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces, plus additional for buttering pan

How to make Corn and Tomato Gratin

Arrange tomato slices in 1 layer on a rack set in a shallow baking pan and sprinkle on both sides with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoons pepper. Let drain 30 minutes.

While tomatoes drain, bring corn, milk, cream, and 1/4 teaspoons salt to a simmer in a 2- to 3-quart heavy saucepan over high heat, then reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, until corn is tender, about 5 minutes. Cool slightly, uncovered.

Put oven rack in upper third of oven and preheat oven to 191°C. Butter a shallow 2-quart baking dish.

Toss together bread crumbs, basil, cheese, and remaining 3/4 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoons pepper in another bowl.

Arrange one third of tomato slices in baking dish, then cover evenly with one third of bread-crumb mixture and dot with one third of butter. Spoon half of corn mixture over crumbs, then repeat layering with half of remaining tomatoes, crumbs, and butter, and all of corn. Arrange remaining tomatoes over corn, then top with remaining bread crumbs and dot with remaining butter.

Bake, uncovered, until top is golden and gratin is bubbling all over, 40 to 45 minutes. Cool slightly on a rack, about 15 minutes, before serving.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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