Choosing the greatest potato dish of all time is an impossible task. Frankly, there are far too many options and they’re all irresistible. But choosing my favorite potato dish to make? That’s an entirely different story, and the answer comes easily: a cheesy potato gratin.

Potato gratins are quick to prepare and always crowd-pleasers. But what I love most about them is that their simplicity allows for endless spontaneity: You can switch up the potatoes, cheeses, and spices however you fancy. What some might see as a simple side I see as a blank canvas, and I consider this particular rendition my Mona Lisa.

Inspired by the flavors of ranch dressing, this zesty potato casserole is just as creamy and rich as the original, but a little bit tangier and far more herbaceous. When served warm and bubbling from the oven, it’s nearly impossible to resist. Here’s how to do it.

How to “ranch-ify” your potato gratin

These three ingredients turn a classic potato gratin into a ranch-lover’s dream.

1. Sour cream: Gratins are typically made with milk, heavy cream, half-and-half, or a bechamel sauce. For this recipe, I added a heaping helping of sour cream to the heavy cream to add tanginess and extra creaminess.

2. Fresh herbs: For me, the perfect ranch vibe is a combo of dill, chives, parsley, a little grated garlic, and lots of freshly cracked black pepper, so you’ll find all of them in this gratin.

3. Dill havarti: This herby cheese provides creaminess, a little tang, and some extra ranch oomph, thanks to its copious amount of dried dill.

Cheesy Ranch Potato Gratin

Serves 8

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