Ham and Potato Au Gratin Recipe

Introduction

Ham and Potato Au Gratin is a comforting, cheesy casserole perfect for a cozy meal. Layers of tender potatoes, savory ham, and rich cheese sauce come together to create a deliciously satisfying dish.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
• 1 1/2 cups cooked ham (diced)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: Layer the ingredients by arranging half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish, followed by half of the ham and half of the onions. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, ham, and onions.
3. Step 3: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Step 4: Gradually whisk in the milk. Allow the mixture to simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. Step 5: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Pour the sauce evenly over the layered potatoes, ham, and onions.
6. Step 6: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes.
7. Step 7: Remove the foil, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
8. Step 8: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to avoid burns and let the flavors settle.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
• Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce for a tangy depth of flavor.
• Use smoked ham for a richer, smoky taste.
• Try mixing in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added vegetables.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Avoid freezing, as the texture of potatoes may change.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes?

Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well. Just ensure they are sliced evenly for consistent cooking.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Omit the ham and consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cooked lentils to maintain heartiness.

Ham and Potato Au Gratin Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 129 reviews

• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Ham and Potato Au Gratin is a creamy, cheesy casserole featuring layers of thinly sliced potatoes, diced ham, and onions baked in a rich cheddar cheese sauce, topped with Parmesan for a golden, bubbly finish. A comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Potato and Ham Layers

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped

Cheese Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish to prevent sticking, ensuring the dish is ready for layering.
2. Layer the Ingredients: Arrange half of the peeled, thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the casserole dish, then spread half of the diced ham and half of the finely chopped onions over the potatoes. Repeat these layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, and onions, creating an even distribution for balanced flavor and texture.
3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute while stirring constantly to eliminate the raw flour taste and create a smooth roux base.
4. Add Milk and Thicken: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir frequently as the sauce simmers and thickens. Season the sauce generously with salt, pepper, and paprika for a subtle kick and depth of flavor.
5. Incorporate Cheddar Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted, resulting in a creamy, cheesy sauce ready to complement the potato layers.
6. Pour Sauce Over Layers: Evenly pour the cheese sauce over the layered potatoes, ham, and onions, making sure it covers the ingredients thoroughly for consistent creaminess throughout the dish.
7. Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, allowing the potatoes to cook through and the flavors to meld together.
8. Add Parmesan and Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown, adding a deliciously crisp and savory crust.
9. Cool Before Serving: Let the au gratin rest for a few minutes out of the oven before serving to avoid burns and to let the flavors settle, ensuring the best taste and texture.

Notes

• For thinner potato slices, use a mandoline slicer for even cooking.
• You can substitute the sharp cheddar with Gruyère for a nuttier flavor.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer a bit longer before removing from heat.
• Use low-fat milk to lighten the dish, though it may reduce creaminess slightly.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Ham and Potato Au Gratin, potato casserole, cheesy casserole, baked potatoes with ham, comfort food, easy dinner recipes