let’s dive into a Ham and Potato Au Gratin recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk continuously to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes lightly golden.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, usually 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, dried thyme, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the saucepan from heat.
- In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Sprinkle half of the diced ham and one-third of each type of cheese (cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan) over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the creamy sauce over the layered ingredients.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, and another one-third of the cheeses. Pour the remaining sauce over the top.
- Finish by sprinkling the remaining one-third of the cheeses over the dish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve and enjoy your cheesy, creamy Ham and Potato Au Gratin! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends, and let the flavor adventure begin!