Description

This Ham and Potato Au Gratin is a comforting, cheesy casserole featuring tender sliced potatoes layered with savory cooked ham and onions, all smothered in a creamy cheese sauce. Baked to golden perfection with a crispy Parmesan topping, this dish makes a decadent main or side perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Meat

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
1 small onion, finely chopped

Sauce Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish to prevent sticking.
Layer ingredients: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom of the dish, then layer half of the diced ham and finely chopped onions on top. Repeat this layering with the remaining potatoes, ham, and onions for a layered casserole effect.
Make roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste and form a roux.
Add milk and thicken sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk to the roux mixture. Keep stirring frequently and allow it to simmer gently until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika for flavor.
Incorporate cheddar cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts completely into the sauce. Pour this cheesy sauce evenly over the layered potatoes, ham, and onions in the casserole dish.
Bake covered: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook through and flavors to meld.
Add Parmesan and finish baking: Remove the foil and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 20 to 30 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Cool and serve: After baking, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the dish set and makes it easier to serve while avoiding burns.

Notes

Use a mandoline slicer for evenly thin potato slices to ensure even cooking.
Leftover ham from holiday meals works perfect in this recipe.
For a richer sauce, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
If you prefer a milder flavor, use mozzarella or a mild cheddar cheese instead.
You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight before baking.
Allow the dish to cool slightly before cutting to help it hold together better.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: ham potato au gratin, cheesy potato casserole, baked potato and ham dish, comforting casserole, holiday casserole