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Cheesy Potatoes with Ham Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the warmth and heartiness of cheesy potatoes with ham. This delightful recipe combines creamy, cheesy potatoes with savoury chunks of ham, making it a perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cosy weekend meal. Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, this dish is sure to please both young and old alike.

Ingredients

For this simple yet satisfying recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1.5 kg (3 lb) of potatoes (preferably Maris Piper or Desiree)
• 200 g (7 oz) of cooked ham, diced
• 300 ml (10 fl oz) of double cream
• 200 g (7 oz) of grated cheddar cheese (mature is best for flavour)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tsp of dried thyme (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 50 g (1.5 oz) of butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Greasing a large baking dish with a little butter will help prevent the potatoes from sticking.

2. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly (about 5 mm thick). This helps them to cook evenly and absorb the delicious flavours of the dish.

3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Layer the Ingredients: In the greased baking dish, start layering the ingredients. Begin with a layer of sliced potatoes, followed by a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and thyme. Then add a layer of sautéed onions and garlic, followed by some of the diced ham and a handful of grated cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of the potatoes covered in cream and topped with cheese.

5. Pour the Cream: Once the layers are complete, pour the double cream over the top of the dish, ensuring it seeps down through the potatoes. This will help keep the dish moist and creamy during baking.

6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminium foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

7. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of colour and added flavour.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy potatoes with ham make for a hearty main dish, but they can also be served as a substantial side alongside steamed vegetables or a crisp salad. This recipe can easily be adapted by incorporating other ingredients such as leeks, peas, or different types of cheese to suit your taste.

Conclusion

This cheesy potatoes with ham recipe is a wonderful way to create a comforting meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week. With minimal preparation and a beautiful blend of flavours, this dish is both satisfying and scrumptious. So why not gather your loved ones around the table and indulge in this delightful creation? Happy cooking!

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