If you’re craving a comforting dish that combines tender potatoes with savory, perfectly seasoned ham and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, you’ve got to try this Ham and Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe. It’s everything you want in a cozy meal—layers of thinly sliced potatoes soaked in a velvety cheddar sauce, generous bites of diced ham, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers hearty satisfaction that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in bringing this dish to life. From the creamy cheese sauce to the tender potatoes and flavorful ham, every ingredient enhances the textures and flavors beautifully.
- 2 lbs potatoes, thinly sliced: The base of the dish, offering comfort with each tender bite.
- 2 cups diced cooked ham: Adds a savory, salty punch that perfectly complements the creamy cheese.
- 3 tbsp butter: Brings richness to the cheese sauce and helps create that luscious consistency.
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to hold everything together beautifully.
- 2 cups milk: Keeps the sauce smooth and creamy without overpowering the flavors.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds decadent creaminess and a silky finish to the sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star cheese for rich, sharp flavor and a gooey texture.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Provides a gentle kick of flavor that complements the ham perfectly.
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth to balance the dish.
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all the flavors without making the dish salty.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a flavorful, golden crust.
- Optional: fresh chives or parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and mild herbal notes.
How to Make Ham and Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later on. Having your baking dish ready sets the stage for assembling this delightful meal.
Step 2: Craft a Luxuriously Creamy Cheese Sauce
Melt the butter over medium heat in a saucepan. Stir in the flour and cook it for about one minute so the raw taste softens, forming the base of your sauce. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, giving the mixture time to thicken into a silky, velvety sauce. Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring the cheese melts fully and the flavors blend harmoniously. This sauce is where the magic begins to happen!
Step 3: Build Your Layers
Arrange half your sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Scatter half the diced ham over them to infuse every bite with savory goodness. Then pour half of the cheese sauce on top, making sure it seeps into every nook and cranny. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes, ham, and cheese sauce for a luscious double-layer effect that makes each forkful richly satisfying. Finish by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on the top layer to create that irresistible golden crust.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil to keep moisture in and bake for 40 minutes. This helps the potatoes cook evenly and the flavors meld nicely. Afterward, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 20 minutes to allow the top to bubble and turn beautifully golden brown. The aroma at this point will have your whole kitchen smelling like a cozy, inviting dinner is on the way.
Step 5: Rest and Get Ready to Serve
Once out of the oven, give the dish at least 10 minutes to rest. This step lets the sauce thicken slightly and the layers set for easier serving. If you like, add a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley for color and a fresh touch. Now you’re ready to enjoy the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that make this Ham and Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe unbeatable.
How to Serve Ham and Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley add a lovely burst of green that brightens the rich colors of this dish. A little extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan right before serving can also enhance the cheesy delight and add a nice salty crunch to each spoonful.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to cut through the richness. Roasted asparagus or a simple vinaigrette-dressed arugula salad make excellent choices to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the au gratin in individual ramekins for a personalized touch that looks charming on the table. You can also accompany it with crusty bread to sop up every creamy, cheesy bit. Layering the dish in a clear glass casserole makes for a stunning presentation, showing off the inviting layers of potatoes, ham, and cheese.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Ham and Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen after resting overnight, so the next day’s meal can be just as delicious.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well! Prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it straight from the freezer with a bit of extra time to ensure it’s cooked through.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to keep moisture in, for about 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil near the end to crisp the top again. This method preserves the creamy texture and keeps the ham juicy and tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Ham and Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe?
Absolutely! Cheddar is classic and flavorful, but feel free to experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or a blend for a different twist on the cheese sauce.
What type of potatoes work best for this dish?
Starchy potatoes like Russets are perfect because they become tender and creamy when baked. However, Yukon Golds can offer a nice buttery flavor and hold their shape slightly better if you prefer a firmer texture.
Is it necessary to precook the ham before adding it to the au gratin?
Using cooked ham is essential as the baking process isn’t long enough to cook raw meat thoroughly. If you have leftover cooked ham, this recipe is a fantastic way to make use of it.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a vegan alternative, use plant-based milk and cream, and choose vegan cheese options. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be different, but still delicious!
How thick should the potato slices be?
Thin slices, about 1/8 inch thick, work best to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the cheese sauce beautifully, creating tender layers throughout the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Ham and Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe is a heartwarming, crowd-pleasing dish that hits all the right notes. With its comforting layers, creamy cheese sauce, and savory ham, it’s a meal that feels like a warm hug in every bite. I encourage you to make this recipe your own and enjoy the joyous smiles it brings to your table time and again.
