Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience: our Ham & Au Gratin Potato Casserole Delight! This dish marries the heartiness of ham with the creamy, cheesy goodness of au gratin potatoes, all baked to perfection with a golden, crispy top that begs for a fork’s first dive. It’s the kind of recipe that warms you from the inside out, perfect for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or any day that calls for a little extra coziness on the plate. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a dish that’s sure to impress at your next potluck, this casserole is a guaranteed hit. Easy to prepare yet rich in flavor, it’s a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together in the most delicious way.
Why You’ll Love Ham & Au Gratin Potato Casserole Delight:
- Hearty and Satisfying: Combines the savory taste of ham with the comforting richness of cheesy potatoes.
- One-Dish Wonder: Everything bakes together in one dish, making preparation and cleanup a breeze.
- Versatile: Perfect for using up leftover ham and adaptable to include your favorite veggies or cheeses.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy texture and flavorful depth are sure to win over everyone at the table.
Ingredients Notes For Ham & Au Gratin Potato Casserole Delight:
- Potatoes: Choose a type that holds up well to baking, such as Russets or Yukon Golds, for the perfect blend of creaminess and structure.
- Ham: Diced or cubed ham adds a savory depth and makes this dish a great option for leftovers.
- Cheese: A mix of sharp cheddar for flavor and mozzarella for meltiness creates a beautifully cheesy experience.
- Milk & Cream: The base for the au gratin sauce, providing creaminess and richness.
- Garlic & Onions: Adds aromatic flavors that complement the ham and cheese wonderfully.
- Spices: A simple blend of salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg enhances the overall taste without overpowering the main ingredients.
Recipe Steps:
- Preheat Oven & Prep Ingredients: Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a baking dish. Slice potatoes thinly, dice ham, and chop onions and garlic.
- Layer the Casserole: Begin with a layer of potatoes, followed by ham, onions, garlic, and cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan, heat milk and cream with a pinch of salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Pour this mixture over the layered casserole.
- Bake to Perfection: Cover with foil and bake for about 1 hour. Remove the foil, then bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest & Serve: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze portions in suitable containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Make a Delicious Ham & Au Gratin Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Scale
For the Potatoes:
- 3 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Extra cheese for topping, if desired
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes without letting it brown. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Reduce the heat to low, and add the shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat.
- Combine Potatoes, Ham, and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, diced ham, and diced onion. Add the cheese sauce and sour cream to the potato mixture, stirring gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the potato mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle additional cheese over the top for a cheesier crust.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
- Serve: Let the casserole stand for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.