Cheesy Ham and Potato

Comforting Cheesy Ham and Potato au Gratin with Peas: A Homestyle Classic Reinvented

Introduction: Warm your heart and satisfy your cravings with our delectable Cheesy Ham and Potato au Gratin with Peas. This classic comfort food dish combines layers of tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 pounds potatoes, sliced thin (about 1/8 inch)
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen and thawed)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually whisk in the warmed milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg, adjusting to taste.
6. Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly. Top with a layer of diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Pour a portion of the cream sauce over the potato and ham layer, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
8. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce on top.
9. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the dish.
10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
11. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown and bubble.
12. Once done, let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• For added flavor, consider incorporating cooked bacon or caramelized onions into the layers.
• Experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyere or Swiss for a unique flavor profile.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes if baking from cold.
2. Can I use other types of potatoes? While Russet potatoes are commonly used for au gratin dishes, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different texture and flavor.
3. What if I don’t have heavy cream? You can substitute half-and-half or a mixture of milk and melted butter for the heavy cream, although the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
4. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze individual portions in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.