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This cozy potato and ham casserole combines tender slices of potato layered with creamy cheese spread to create pure comfort food. A treasured family recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming dish that brings smiles to everyone's faces when it emerges golden brown from the oven.
This recipe came together on a cold winter evening while looking for a creative way to use leftover ham. The addition of creamy cheese spread was inspired by childhood sandwiches and proved to be the perfect finishing touch.
Essential Ingredients
- Waxy potatoes (2.2 lbs) - Choose Yukon Gold or similar varieties that hold their shape when cooked
- Ham (7 oz) - Select thick-cut, high-quality ham for the best flavor
- Creamy cheese spread (8 portions) - Creates a smooth, velvety binding between layers
- Heavy cream (3.4 fl oz) - Adds rich moisture throughout the dish
- Grated Gruyere (1.8 oz) - Creates a perfectly golden crust
Detailed Instructions
- 1. Preparation
- Carefully peel the potatoes. Use a mandoline to slice them evenly to 2-3mm thickness. Boil in salted water for exactly 10 minutes - this precise timing prevents them from becoming too soft or staying too firm.
- 2. Handling the Potatoes
- Drain thoroughly and arrange in a single layer on a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F with convection for even baking.
- 3. Making the Custard
- Whisk eggs with cream until completely blended. Season well with salt, pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg for subtle warmth and depth.
- 4. Assembly
- Butter your baking dish thoroughly. Layer potato slices with slight overlap, add ham and cheese spread portions, then repeat layers, finishing with potatoes.
- 5. Baking
- Pour the egg mixture carefully between layers. Top generously with grated Gruyere and bake 30-35 minutes until evenly golden.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes and ham provide essential protein and complex carbohydrates
- Cheese adds calcium and natural creaminess
- A well-balanced meal that offers sustained energy
This casserole has become our go-to solution for busy weeknights. The creamy pockets of melted cheese between potato layers never fail to delight everyone at the table.
Creative Variations
Try adding sautéed mushrooms between layers for extra texture and depth. For an elegant twist, substitute smoked salmon for the ham.
Plating Tips
Let the casserole rest 5-7 minutes before serving to set properly. Garnish each portion with fresh arugula and a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant presentation.
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Perfect Pairings
Serve with a simple green salad dressed in light vinaigrette. For cooler evenings, braised endives make an excellent bitter counterpoint to the rich casserole.
This potato casserole represents the essence of family cooking - simple yet generous, comforting yet never boring. Each time I make it, I'm reminded how basic ingredients can create something truly special that brings people together.
Recipe Tips
- → Can this dish be made in advance?
- Yep, make it a few hours ahead and heat it up in the oven at 320°F for 15-20 minutes.
- → Which type of potatoes work best?
- Go for waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Red Potatoes—they hold their shape while cooking.
- → Can I swap out the cheese?
- Totally! Try cream cheese or even cheese slices if you don’t have the original one.
- → How do I know when it’s cooked through?
- The top should be golden, and a knife should slide easily through the potatoes.
- → Is this dish freezer-friendly?
- Yes, after baking you can freeze it. Reheat it in the oven to keep that crispy top.