Potato Gratin with Ham and Cheese
Potato gratin with ham and cheese is a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe layers tender potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheese in a decadent cream sauce, baked to golden perfection.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and hearty.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A dish that both kids and adults adore.
- Versatile: Works as a main dish or a side.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance and bake when ready.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Potatoes | 2 lbs | Thinly sliced |
| Ham | 1 cup | Diced or sliced |
| Gruyère Cheese | 1 cup | Shredded |
| Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup | Shredded |
| Heavy Cream | 2 cups | Can substitute with half-and-half |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Onion Powder | 1 tsp | For added flavor |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | For seasoning |
| Butter | 1 tbsp | For greasing the baking dish |
| Fresh Parsley | 2 tbsp | Chopped, for garnish |
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline or sharp knife.
- Make the Cream Mixture:
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Assemble the Gratin:
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the ham, Gruyère cheese, and cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, ham, and cheese.
- Pour the cream mixture evenly over the layers.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips for the Perfect Potato Gratin
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for their creamy texture.
- Even Slices: Use a mandoline for uniform potato slices to ensure even cooking.
- Customize the Cheese: Swap in your favorite cheeses, such as Parmesan or Swiss.
- Add Vegetables: Include spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
Variations
- Bacon Lover’s Gratin: Substitute ham with crispy bacon.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and add layers of roasted vegetables.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños.
- Lighter Version: Use milk instead of cream and reduce the cheese.
FAQs About Potato Gratin with Ham and Cheese
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the gratin, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
What can I serve with potato gratin?
It pairs well with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I freeze potato gratin?
Yes, but the texture may change slightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
Conclusion
Potato gratin with ham and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy layers of potatoes with savory ham and melted cheese. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty side or a main dish, this recipe is guaranteed to delight. Customize it to your taste, and enjoy this decadent, crowd-pleasing favorite!