Ham And Potato Au Gratin
A creamy, cheesy ham and potato au gratin combining tender hash browns, savory ham, and rich cheese sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, melt the margarine.
- Stir in the flour.
- Add 1 3/4 cups milk all at once and cook to make the sauce.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir 1 cup of the sauce into the beaten eggs.
- Stir in the Cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup milk, and pepper.
- Set the cheese mixture aside.
- In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil and sauté the sliced onions until tender.
- In a greased baking dish, layer the frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, cooked ham strips, and sautéed onions.
- Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce. If you don’t have margarine, unsalted butter works as a great substitute. You can also use a mix of cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique twist. For a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside some crusty bread or a side of Farm Fried Potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave in individual portions, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Potato Au Gratin contains roughly 916 calories, with 30g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), protein (59% of the Daily Value), and calcium (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 985mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes! Slice or dice them thinly and parboil them for about 5 minutes before layering them in the dish. This will ensure they cook through properly while baking.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that your cheese and other ingredients are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious dish without worry.
What other meats can I add to this au gratin?
In addition to ham, you could add cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or spinach to replace the meat, maintaining the hearty nature of the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).