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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
