Description

There's nothing more comforting than a dish of creamy gratin potatoes, especially when paired with ham and topped with melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for serving as a side dish or even as a main course at a special dinner. The combination of tender potatoes, creamy sauce, savory ham, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering experience. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare! With ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, you'll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 4 potatoes, cubed
• 200g ham, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• Olive oil (enough to sauté)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 500ml milk
• Salt to taste
• Oregano to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Grated cheese to taste

Step by Step Instructions

• Step 1

  

  Peel and cube 4 medium potatoes. Make sure the cubes are even in size for consistent cooking.

• Step 2

  

  Dice 200g of ham. You can use fresh ham or leftover ham from a previous meal.

• Step 3

  

  Chop one medium onion into small pieces for even distribution throughout the dish.

• Step 4

  

  In a skillet, add enough olive oil (about 2 tablespoons) and heat over medium heat.

• Step 5

  

  Add the diced ham and chopped onion to the hot oil. Sauté until the onion is golden and the ham is slightly crispy. Set aside.

• Step 6

  

  In a separate pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat.

• Step 7

  

  Once the butter is melted, add 2 tablespoons of flour, stirring constantly to form a roux.

• Step 8

  

  Gradually add 500ml of milk to the roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

• Step 9

  

  Keep stirring the mixture until it thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce.

• Step 10

  

  Season the sauce with salt to taste.

• Step 11

  

  Add oregano for an extra burst of flavor.

• Step 12

  

  Add freshly ground black pepper for a hint of spice.

• Step 13

  

  In a baking dish, pour a layer of the creamy sauce.

• Step 14

  

  Add the cubed potatoes evenly over the sauce.

• Step 15

  

  Layer the sautéed ham and onion mixture on top of the potatoes.

• Step 16

  

  Pour another layer of creamy sauce over the ham and potatoes.

• Step 17

  

  Sprinkle grated cheese generously over the top.

• Step 18

  

  Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 30 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Serve and enjoy!

Tips and Conclusion

For extra crunch, mix some breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan and sprinkle over the top before baking. This will create a crispy topping that perfectly complements the creamy interior.

This creamy potato gratin with ham is the kind of dish that pleases everyone. With its smooth texture and balanced flavors, it's perfect for a family meal or an impressive dinner. The preparation time is short, but the result is so tasty it feels like you've spent hours in the kitchen! The cheesy, golden top adds the final touch, making every bite a delightful experience.