Creamy Ham and Potato Au Gratin

Warm, comforting, and incredibly satisfying, this Creamy Ham and Potato Au Gratin is the perfect dish for a hearty family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Layers of tender potatoes and savory ham are enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce, then baked to golden, bubbly perfection. The subtle flavors of onion and paprika add depth to this classic dish, making it a flavorful and indulgent option that everyone will love. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this au gratin is sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (aim for 1/8 inch thick slices for even cooking)
• 1 1/2 cups of diced cooked ham (for a robust, savory flavor)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (infuses subtle aromatic flavor)
• 3 tablespoons of butter (creates the foundation for the cheese sauce)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (thickens the cheese sauce)
• 2 cups milk (creates a creamy base for the sauce)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (enhances the flavors)
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper (adds subtle heat)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (adds color and flavor)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (melts into the sauce for rich flavor)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (creates a golden bubbly topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish and set aside.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • Peel and thinly slice the potatoes, aiming for about 1/8 inch thickness to ensure even cooking. You can use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices if you have one.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan, heat the butter over medium heat until melted. Stir in the finely minced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent.
   • Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. This will thicken the sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps, and cook until the mixture begins to thicken, about 5 minutes.
   • Once thickened, add the salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   • In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Sprinkle half of the diced ham over the potatoes, followed by a ladle of the cheese sauce.
   • Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer of the cheese sauce.
5. Bake:
   • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes
   • Once 45 minutes have passed, take off the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft and the top is crisp and golden brown.
6. Serve:
   • Once baked, remove the au gratin from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
   • Serve warm, and enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish as a main course or side.

Conclusion:

This Creamy Ham and Potato Au Gratin is a comforting dish that brings together the best of tender potatoes, savory ham, and a rich cheese sauce. The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses creates a delightful depth of flavor, while the golden topping adds an irresistible texture. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or an impressive side dish for a holiday meal, this recipe delivers every time. Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness with your loved ones, and watch it quickly become a favorite at the dinner table.