Craving a dish that's both comforting and elegant? Look no further than this elevated Au Gratin Potatoes and Ham recipe. This isn't your grandma's au gratin – while retaining all the creamy, cheesy goodness, we’ve added a delightful smoky ham flavor that takes it to the next level. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1 lb thinly sliced ham, cut into 1/4 inch pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (or a blend of Swiss and cheddar)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives for garnish
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Prepare the potatoes: Rinse the thinly sliced potatoes and pat them dry. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture and preventing excess water in the final dish.
Layer the magic: In the prepared baking dish, begin layering the potatoes, slightly overlapping them. Sprinkle a layer of ham evenly over the potatoes. Repeat the layers until all potatoes and ham are used, ending with a potato layer.
Make the creamy sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, milk, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Pour and cheese: Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and ham. Sprinkle the Parmesan and Gruyere cheese generously over the top.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. If the top is browning too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
Rest and serve: Let the au gratin potatoes rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh chives, if desired.
Cooking Tips for Delicious Au Gratin Potatoes and Ham:
- Thinly sliced potatoes: Using a mandoline slicer ensures even cooking and prevents overly thick potatoes from becoming mushy.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the potato layers to allow the sauce to penetrate and prevent steaming.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning is key! Taste the creamy sauce before pouring it over the potatoes and adjust salt, pepper, and thyme as needed.
Variations:
- Add other cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Fontina, cheddar, or even a blend of your favorites.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Use different meats: Substitute the ham with bacon, pancetta, or even shredded cooked chicken.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate sauteed mushrooms, onions, or leeks for added flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This delicious Au Gratin Potatoes and Ham recipe is a perfect example of how simple, homemade cooking can create truly satisfying and impressive healthy meals. Enjoy!