Au Gratin Potatoes With Ham: An Electric Skillet Delight

The aroma of cheesy potatoes au gratin always transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She had this uncanny ability to make the simplest dishes taste extraordinary, and her au gratin potatoes were legendary. The creamy, cheesy sauce, the tender potatoes, and that hint of smoky ham – it was pure comfort food. I remember eagerly waiting for the bubbling, golden-brown dish to emerge from her ancient oven, the anticipation almost unbearable. This recipe, adapted for the electric skillet, captures that same cozy, comforting essence, bringing those cherished memories to life with every bite.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Dietary Type: Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes
• 1 cup chopped smoked ham
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 teaspoons flour
• 1 1/2 cups cold water
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded smoked Provolone cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Equipment Needed

• Electric Skillet
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the potatoes. Place the thinly sliced potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl and add enough water to cover them completely.
2. Microwave the potatoes on high for 8 minutes. This par-cooks them, ensuring they’ll be tender in the final dish.
3. Carefully drain the potatoes well after microwaving. Set aside.
4. In a small mixing bowl, prepare the sauce base. Combine the flour, cold water, sour cream, salt, and pepper.
5. Whisk the ingredients together thoroughly until smooth and there are no lumps. A smooth sauce is crucial for a creamy final product.
6. Turn your electric skillet to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Allow it to preheat properly.
7. Once the skillet is hot, melt the butter. Make sure the entire surface of the skillet is coated with melted butter to prevent sticking.
8. Add the sliced potatoes and chopped smoked ham to the skillet. Sauté for approximately 3 minutes, turning the ingredients occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. This step helps to develop a nice flavor base.
9. Pour the water-sour cream mixture over the potatoes and ham in the skillet.
10. Mix well to ensure the sauce is evenly distributed throughout the potatoes and ham.
11. Add the shredded smoked Gouda cheese, smoked Provolone cheese, and Swiss cheese to the skillet.
12. Mix the cheeses thoroughly into the potato mixture. The cheese will melt and create a rich, creamy sauce.
13. Cover the electric skillet and reduce the heat to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes.
14. After the initial cooking time, use a spatula to turn/stir the potatoes. This helps to prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
15. Cover the skillet again and continue to cook for another 15 to 20 minutes. You can increase the heat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit during this second round of cooking if you prefer a browner, crispier top, as some people enjoy. Monitor closely to prevent burning.
16. Remove the cover and cook off any remaining liquid for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps to thicken the sauce and concentrate the flavors.
17. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For an even creamier sauce, consider adding a tablespoon of cream cheese to the sour cream mixture.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If you’re making a larger batch, it’s better to cook in two separate batches to ensure even cooking.
• If you find the sauce is too thick, add a little more water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
• To prevent sticking, ensure the skillet is properly preheated and the butter is evenly distributed.
• For a more intense smoky flavor, use a hickory-smoked ham.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Au Gratin Potatoes with Ham is best served hot and fresh from the electric skillet. It makes a wonderful side dish for roasted chicken, pork chops, or even grilled steak. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. Note that the texture may change slightly upon reheating; it might become a bit softer. Freezing is not recommended, as the dairy in the sauce can separate upon thawing, resulting in a grainy texture.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	450 kcal	23%
Total Fat	30g	46%
Saturated Fat	18g	90%
Cholesterol	75mg	25%
Sodium	600mg	25%
Total Carbohydrate	30g	10%
Dietary Fiber	3g	12%
Sugars	2g	–
Protein	20g	40%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Gruyere, cheddar, or Monterey Jack would all work well.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage to the skillet during the sautéing process to infuse the potatoes with herbal flavors.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure the flour used is a gluten-free blend, or substitute with cornstarch for thickening.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and evenly, resulting in a better texture.

Q: Can I use different types of potatoes?
A: Yukon Gold potatoes are a great option due to their creamy texture. Russet potatoes can also be used, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Q: How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the skillet?
A: Ensure the skillet is properly preheated and that there is enough butter coating the surface. Stirring occasionally during cooking will also help prevent sticking.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cheese, then refrigerate it. Add the cheese and bake just before serving.

Q: My sauce is too thin. How do I thicken it?
A: Mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and whisk it into the sauce. Cook for a few minutes until thickened.

Final Thoughts

This Au Gratin Potatoes with Ham recipe, adapted for the electric skillet, is a testament to the fact that delicious comfort food doesn’t always require complex techniques or fancy equipment. It’s a simple, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the joy of homemade au gratin potatoes. Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations and seasonings to create your own unique version. And don’t hesitate to share your feedback – I’d love to hear how it turns out! Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite wine for a complete and utterly comforting meal.