Step 1

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Butter an 8-inch-long, 1/4-inch-deep oval gratin dish. Coat with bread crumbs, and set the dish aside.

Step 2

In a large bowl, whisk together the potatoes, egg yolks, cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic until creamy and well combined. Season with salt and pepper, and set the potato mixture aside.

Step 3

Place egg whites and a pinch of salt in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Whip on medium speed until the whites are glossy and stiff.

Step 4

Fold the egg whites into the potato mixture. Transfer mixture to the prepared gratin dish, and bake until golden and puffy, about 40 minutes. Top with nutmeg, and serve.