When the chill sets in and cozy evenings beckon, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a bubbling dish in the oven. Enter my Creamy Ham and Potato Au Gratin—a delightful blend of tender potatoes and savory ham, all enveloped in a luscious, cheesy sauce that just melts in your mouth. I stumbled upon this recipe during a rainy weekend, inspired by a few leftover slices of ham that begged to be transformed into something hearty and heartwarming.
Every layer is a celebration of comfort food at its finest, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings with loved ones. For me, this recipe carries an air of nostalgia, reminiscent of family meals around the table, where the only thing more inviting than its aroma is the satisfaction of sharing it with others. Ready to turn your kitchen into a haven of indulgence? Let’s dive into this creamy, cheesy delight that’s sure to please everyone!
Why will you love this Ham and Potato Au Gratin?
Heartwarming Comfort: This dish brings back cherished memories of family gatherings, delivering a taste of nostalgia.
Indulgent Creaminess: Each bite is enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce that melts beautifully, offering incredible flavor and texture.
Easy Prep: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Versatile Pairing: Whether served as a side or a cozy main dish, it complements any meal seamlessly.
Leftover Hero: Perfect for utilizing leftover ham, reducing food waste while creating something scrumptious.
Let your taste buds be delighted by this creamy, cheesy wonder!
Ham and Potato Au Gratin Ingredients
For the Base
• Potatoes – Use starchy varieties like Yukon Gold for a wonderfully creamy texture.
• Cooked Ham – Leftover ham adds savory flavor; feel free to substitute with cooked chicken or turkey for variation.
• Onion (finely chopped) – Enhances the flavor depth; yellow or white onions work best.
For the Sauce
• Butter – Essential for making a roux; switch to olive oil for a lighter option.
• All-purpose Flour – Thickens the cheese sauce beautifully; gluten-free flour is a great alternative.
• Milk – Forms the creamy base; whole milk creates richness, while 2% milk provides a lighter taste.
• Salt – Adjust to taste, especially depending on the saltiness of your ham.
• Pepper – Freshly ground pepper adds a nice seasoning kick.
• Paprika – Offers earthy flavor and subtle color; smoked paprika can add an exciting depth.
For the Cheesy Topping
• Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese – This brings a melty texture and sharp flavor; feel free to swap with Monterey Jack or Gouda.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty element; Pecorino Romano is a tasty alternative.
With these delicious Ham and Potato Au Gratin ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table!
How to Make Ham and Potato Au Gratin
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart casserole dish. This step ensures the au gratin bakes evenly and doesn’t stick!
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Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish, followed by half of the diced ham and onions. Repeat with the remaining ingredients for the perfect blend of flavors.
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Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour for about 1 minute to form a roux, creating a base for your creamy sauce.
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Whisk in milk gradually, simmering until the mixture thickens. Add salt, pepper, and paprika for a boost of flavor as the sauce comes together.
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Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted, creating that luscious, gooey texture. Pour this cheesy goodness evenly over the layered ingredients.
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Cover the dish with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top, and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
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Rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Ham and Potato Au Gratin
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the creamy texture and flavors of the ham and potato au gratin.
Freezer: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave. This restores the crispiness of the top and keeps the dish creamy. Aim for 20-25 minutes until heated throughout.
Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the ham and potato au gratin a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to pop it in the oven!
Ham and Potato Au Gratin Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to your liking!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap the ham for sautéed mushrooms or roasted spinach for a delightful vegetarian version.
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Garlic Infusion: Add roasted garlic to the sauce for a rich, aromatic flavor boost that elevates the dish beautifully.
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Lower-Carb Option: Substitute thinly sliced zucchini for some or all of the potatoes for a lighter dish that’s still satisfying.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked cheddar or a sprinkling of bacon bits for added depth and a smoky twist on the classic recipe.
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Herb Bliss: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the cheese sauce for a delightful burst of flavor.
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Creamy Twist: Use cream or half-and-half instead of milk for an ultra-decadent sauce that’s rich and velvety.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring some heat and an exciting flavor contrast.
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Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack for a spicy kick or Gruyère for a nutty flavor.
Each variation offers a unique twist, making your Ham and Potato Au Gratin a versatile and exciting dish to enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
Making this Ham and Potato Au Gratin ahead of time is a fantastic way to simplify your meal prep routine! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, layering the potatoes, ham, and onions, then covering with the sauce before refrigerating. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain flavor and freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy this cozy comfort food, simply bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the original cooking time if it’s still cold. Alternatively, you can prep components like the sauce and cut potatoes up to 3 days ahead, storing them separately. This preparation not only saves time during busy weeknights but ensures you’ll savor every delicious bite of warmth and indulgence!
Tips for the Best Ham and Potato Au Gratin
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Slice Evenly: Ensure all potatoes are sliced uniformly to guarantee even cooking and a lovely texture throughout the dish.
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Roux Magic: Don’t rush the roux! Cook the flour and butter until it’s lightly golden to enhance the flavor of your creamy cheese sauce.
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Rest Time: Allow the dish to rest for at least 10 minutes post-baking; this helps the cheesy layers set beautifully and makes serving easier.
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Season Generously: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper levels based on your ham’s saltiness to achieve the best ham and potato au gratin flavor.
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Cheese Varieties: Feel free to mix different cheeses for unique flavor combinations. A blend of cheddar and gouda can create an irresistible creaminess!
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Layer Wisely: Layering ingredients properly not only looks appealing but ensures a balanced bite of flavors in every serving.
What to Serve with Ham and Potato Au Gratin?
Nothing completes a cozy meal like thoughtful pairings that elevate the comforting flavors of your dish.
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness, adding a refreshing contrast to the creamy au gratin.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, crusty texture of garlic bread complements the softness of the au gratin, creating a satisfying bite with each forkful.
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Steamed Broccoli: Vibrant green broccoli offers a nutritious and crunchy element that enhances the heartiness of the ham and potatoes, making it a perfect side.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus with a sprinkle of lemon zest brings brightness and a hint of freshness, balancing the indulgent flavors of the dish effectively.
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Apple Sauce: The sweet and tangy notes of apple sauce provide an unexpected contrast that pairs beautifully with the savory ham and creamy cheese.
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Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay offers the perfect balance with its fruity notes and crisp acidity, enhancing the richness of the au gratin.
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Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, a fudgy brownie creates a delightful ending, as its rich sweetness rounds out the savory flavors of the meal beautifully.
Ham and Potato Au Gratin Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for ham and potato au gratin?
I recommend using starchy varieties like Yukon Gold potatoes for a wonderfully creamy texture. Their natural starches help create that satisfying, melt-in-your-mouth experience you crave in au gratin.
How do I store leftover ham and potato au gratin?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the dish’s creamy texture and rich flavors. If you’re looking to enjoy it later, consider freezing it instead!
Can I freeze ham and potato au gratin?
Absolutely! Once the dish has cooled completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, aiming for about 20-25 minutes for even warming.
What if my cheese sauce isn’t thickening properly?
If your cheese sauce is too thin, it could be due to the roux not cooking long enough. Make sure to cook the flour and butter until they’re lightly golden before adding the milk. If it’s still not thickening, whisk a little more flour in a separate bowl with a splash of cold milk to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce and cook until thickened.
Is this dish suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
If you need to adapt this ham and potato au gratin recipe for dietary restrictions, you can easily make a gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, if you’re looking to avoid dairy, you might experiment with plant-based milk and cheese alternatives. It’s a flexible recipe, so feel free to adjust as needed!
Ham and Potato Au Gratin: Your New Favorite Cozy Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish, followed by half of the diced ham and onions. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Whisk in milk gradually and simmer until thickened. Add salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Pour over layered ingredients.
- Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle with Parmesan, and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes.
- Rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing layers to set.