Ham and Potatoes au Gratin

Ham and Potatoes au Gratin Recipe - Classic French Dish

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Ham and Potatoes au Gratin is a classic comfort food dish that combines layers of tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy cheese sauce. This hearty casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special holiday meal.

History

The origins of Ham and Potatoes au Gratin can be traced back to French cuisine, where gratin dishes have been popular for centuries. The term "gratin" refers to a dish that is topped with breadcrumbs or cheese and then baked until golden and bubbly. This particular recipe has been adapted over the years to include ham and other ingredients for a delicious twist on the traditional gratin.

Ingredients

0.33 cup butter
0.5 cup flour
2.5 cup milk
2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
0.5 tbsp salt
0.5 tbsp white pepper
6 cup sliced potatoes, cooked
1.5 cup cubed, cooked ham
1.5 cup broccoli florets, cooked
0.5 cup chopped onion

Topping

3 tbsp butter, melted
0.5 cup cracker crumbs
0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tbsp parsley

How to prepare

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour until smooth.
Cook for one minute.
Gradually add milk; cook and stir until thickened and bubbly.
Add cheese, salt, and pepper; stir until cheese melts.
Remove from heat.
In a buttered 2 qt (1.89 liter) casserole dish, layer potatoes, ham, broccoli, and onion.
Pour cheese over top.
Repeat layers two more times, ending with cheese.
Combine topping ingredients; sprinkle over casserole.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 35 – 40 minutes.

Variations

Substitute different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Swiss, for a different flavor profile.
Add cooked bacon or sausage for an extra savory twist.
Mix in different vegetables, such as peas or bell peppers, for added color and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure even cooking.

- Pre-cooking the potatoes and ham before assembling the casserole will help to speed up the baking time and ensure that all the ingredients are fully cooked.

- For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes at the end of the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ham and Potatoes au Gratin as a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Layering the ingredients in the casserole dish ensures that each bite is filled with a delicious combination of flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use leftover cooked chicken or turkey instead of ham.

- Substitute cauliflower or sweet potatoes for a different twist on the classic recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Ham and Potatoes au Gratin can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply cover the casserole dish with foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the finished casserole with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Ham and Potatoes au Gratin with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Ham and Potatoes au Gratin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ham and Potatoes au Gratin contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ham and Potatoes au Gratin contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ham and Potatoes au Gratin contains approximately 25 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Ham and Potatoes au Gratin contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Ham and Potatoes au Gratin is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk, cheese) and gluten (flour, cracker crumbs).

Summary

Ham and Potatoes au Gratin is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Ham and Potatoes au Gratin is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With layers of tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy cheese sauce, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were falling, and the smell of smoke from nearby chimneys filled the air. I was visiting my dear friend Margaret, a wonderful cook who always had a recipe up her sleeve. As I entered her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the comforting aroma of a bubbling pot on the stove.

"Come in, my dear! I was just about to make something special for lunch," Margaret said, her eyes twinkling.

I settled into a chair at the kitchen table, eager to see what delicious creation Margaret had in store for me. She began to peel and slice potatoes with practiced ease, her hands moving swiftly as she chattered away.

"Have you ever had Ham and Potatoes au Gratin?" she asked, glancing over at me with a mischievous smile.

I shook my head, intrigued by the unfamiliar name. Margaret explained that it was a classic dish that combined layers of thinly sliced potatoes, ham, and a rich, cheesy sauce. She assured me that it was simple to make but incredibly satisfying.

As she assembled the dish, I watched intently, taking mental notes of each step. The potatoes were arranged in a buttered baking dish, alternating with slices of ham and a creamy sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and cheese. It was a labor of love, but the end result was worth it. The dish emerged from the oven golden and bubbling, the cheese on top melted and slightly crispy.

I took my first bite, savoring the creamy potatoes and salty ham. The flavors melded together perfectly, creating a comforting, hearty meal that warmed me from the inside out. Margaret beamed as I praised her cooking, happy to share her recipe with me.

From that day on, Ham and Potatoes au Gratin became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and cozy nights at home. Each time I prepared it, I thought of Margaret and how her generosity had introduced me to this delicious dish.

Over the years, I made a few tweaks to the recipe, adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of white wine for a little extra flavor. I also shared it with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this comforting meal.

One day, my own granddaughter asked me for the recipe, curious about the origins of this dish that she had grown to love. I sat her down at my kitchen table, just as Margaret had done with me all those years ago.

"The secret to Ham and Potatoes au Gratin is to take your time," I told her, as I peeled and sliced potatoes with care. "Each layer should be assembled with love, and the dish should be baked until golden and bubbly."

As my granddaughter watched me cook, I saw a spark of recognition in her eyes. She understood the importance of tradition, of passing down recipes from generation to generation. And as we sat down to enjoy our meal together, I knew that the memory of discovering this recipe for the first time would always be a happy one.