Colorado Potato Gratin: A Creamy, Comforting Side Dish

Why Colorado Potatoes?

Colorado is known for its high-altitude farming, which produces some of the most flavorful potatoes in the country. Our state’s cool nights and sunny days create the perfect growing conditions for spuds that are rich in flavor and perfect for dishes like this gratin. Using local potatoes not only supports Colorado farmers but also ensures your dish is fresh and delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs Colorado-grown potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)

• 1 ½ cups heavy cream (from a local dairy, if possible)

• 1 cup shredded Colorado cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (or substitute with more cheddar)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)

• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or ½ tsp dried rosemary)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Butter for greasing the baking dish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.

2. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes (optional). Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, cut them into thin, even slices (about 1/8-inch thick).

3. Layer the Potatoes: Arrange a layer of potato slices in the bottom of the baking dish, slightly overlapping them. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt, pepper, minced garlic, and a few thyme and rosemary leaves. Repeat the layers until all the potatoes are used.

4. Add the Cream: Slowly pour the heavy cream over the potatoes, making sure it seeps into all the layers.

5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes.

6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

7. Rest and Serve: Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the cream to set slightly, making it easier to slice.

Tips for Success

• Use a Mandoline Slicer: For even, thin slices of potato, a mandoline slicer is your best friend. Just watch your fingers!

• Add a Crunchy Topping: For extra texture, mix ½ cup breadcrumbs with 1 tbsp melted butter and sprinkle it over the cheese before baking.

• Make It Ahead: Assemble the gratin up to a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Colorado Potato Gratin pairs beautifully with:

• A juicy Colorado lamb roast

• Grilled Rocky Mountain trout

• A simple green salad with local honey vinaigrette

• Roasted seasonal vegetables

Recipe Card

Colorado Potato Gratin
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Serves: 6-8