Begin this culinary adventure of Scalloped Potatoes with Ham with a mouthwatering appetizer of anticipation, as we explore not only this delightful dish’s unique flavors but its nutrient-packed goodness as well. Originating in the comfort food territories, this dish turns ordinary potatoes and ham into a richly gratifying main course coupled with the bonus of abundant Vitamin B12—essential for overall health and wellbeing.
Ingredients List
Stock up your kitchen with:
- 2 pounds of russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1.5 cups of diced ham
- A cup of shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- 2 cups of heavy cream
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- A dash of nutmeg
- Fresh chives for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Use butter to grease a baking dish.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and translucent.
- Stir in the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Continue to cook, stirring continuously until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes into the greased baking dish. Pour half of the creamy mixture over the potatoes. Spread the diced ham on top, then sprinkle with half of the cheese.
- Repeat with another layer of potatoes, the creamy sauce, and finally the rest of the cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about an hour or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh chives before serving for a pop of color and a subtle hint of onion flavor.
Cooking Time & Servings
The total prep and cooking time for this sumptuous dish is around 1 hour and 30 minutes, yielding approximately 6 generous servings.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Scalloped Potatoes with Ham is a nourishing, proof positive that healthy and delicious can indeed go hand in hand. Per serving, the dish provides approximately:
- Total calories: 510
- Grams of fat: 33 g
- Grams of carbohydrates: 32 g
- Grams of protein: 18 g
- Grams of Vitamin B12: 1.4 μg
Tips and Tricks
Making Scalloped Potatoes with Ham is no rocket science, but here are some helpful hints to make the journey smoother. You can try using different types of cheese for a varied flavor profile. Those with dietary restrictions can use almond milk instead of heavy cream or a plant-based ham substitute. Remember, the thinner you slice your potatoes, the quicker they will cook.
To wrap it up, the flavors of this dish bring…
To wrap it up, the flavors of this dish bring forth a symphony of textures—creamy, hearty, with an edge of sharp cheese and mellowed by delicate potatoes. It truly showcases how humble ingredients can spark a festival of flavors and nutrition, especially Vitamin B12. So, give your apron a twirl and set forth on this tantalizing culinary escapade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What other meats can I use instead of ham? – Turkey or chicken can make a flavorful substitute.
Can I make this dish vegetarian? – Absolutely! Replace ham with a plant-based substitute.
What can I serve with Scalloped Potatoes and Ham? – It pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or seasonal roasted vegetables.
How long does this dish stay fresh? – It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze Scalloped Potatoes and Ham? – Definitely! Just make sure it cools completely before popping it into the freezer.
Remember, cooking is all about creativity and fun. So roll up those sleeves, gather your ingredients, and whip up your version of Scalloped Potatoes with Ham. Don’t forget to share your creations, experiences, and suggestions. Happy cooking!
