Ham and Potato Au Gratin Recipe

Introduction

Ham and Potato Au Gratin is a comforting, cheesy casserole perfect for any meal. Layers of tender potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy cheese sauce come together to create a deliciously satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.

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 the oven to 350°F (175°C) and 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, then half of the ham and 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. Simmer the mixture, 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 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 to 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
8. Step 8: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and to prevent burns.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream in the sauce.
• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery texture or Russet potatoes for a firmer bite.
• Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce for enhanced flavor.
• Swap out ham for cooked bacon or turkey for a different twist.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish covered with foil in a 325°F (160°C) oven until heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the potatoes tender.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a little extra baking time if baking directly from cold.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely. Gouda, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack can all be substituted for cheddar to create different flavor profiles while still maintaining a creamy texture.

Ham and Potato Au Gratin Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 71 reviews

• Author: Sarah
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This classic Ham and Potato Au Gratin recipe features tender sliced potatoes layered with diced ham and onions, all smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and Parmesan. Baked to golden brown perfection, this comforting casserole is perfect as a hearty side dish or a satisfying main course.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Potato and Meat Layer

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

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.
2. Layer the Ingredients: Arrange half of the peeled and thinly sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom of the casserole dish. Next, sprinkle half of the diced ham followed by half of the finely chopped onions. Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, ham, and onions.
3. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Add Milk and Thicken Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to simmer the sauce while stirring frequently until it thickens to a creamy consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika for flavor.
5. Add Cheddar Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
6. Combine and Bake Covered: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes, ham, and onions in the casserole dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes.
7. Add Parmesan and Bake Uncovered: Carefully remove the foil, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 20 to 30 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Cool Before Serving: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the dish to set slightly and to cool enough for safe serving.

Notes

• For best results, slice potatoes uniformly thin to ensure even cooking.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it slightly longer before combining with cheese.
• Substitute the ham with cooked bacon or turkey for variety.
• This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; just add additional baking time if baking from cold.
• Use sharp cheddar for more pronounced flavor; mild cheddar works if preferred.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Ham and Potato Au Gratin, cheesy potato casserole, baked potato with ham, comfort food, casserole recipe