If you're craving a dish that combines comforting creaminess with layers of melty cheese and savory flavor, look no further than this Super Easy Potato Gratin. With its rich cream cheese and tomato sauce base, paired with grated ham and mozzarella, every bite offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes. It's the ultimate side dish for any meal or even a standalone comfort food to enjoy on a cozy night. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just indulging yourself, this gratin will soon become a household favorite. Ready to make it? Let’s dive into the details of this incredible recipe!
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious potato gratin:
- 150g cream cheese: The creamy base of this gratin. It adds a rich, smooth texture that melts beautifully in the oven, ensuring the dish is indulgent and comforting.
- 1 cup ready-made tomato sauce: Provides a mild, tangy flavor that perfectly balances the richness of the cream cheese and the savory ham. It’s an unexpected but delightful twist!
- Black pepper (to taste): For a dash of spiciness and flavor. It enhances the overall taste profile without overwhelming the dish.
- Oregano (to taste): A sprinkle of dried oregano adds a touch of herbaceous freshness that complements the richness of the cheese and tomato.
- 4 potatoes (boiled and quartered): The hearty base of this dish, potatoes bring a satisfying, soft texture that soaks up all the flavorful ingredients.
- 2 cups grated ham: Savory, slightly smoky, and tender, the ham adds protein and depth to this gratin. The saltiness of the ham complements the creamy cheese mixture beautifully.
- 2 cups grated mozzarella: The cheese that ties it all together. Mozzarella melts wonderfully, creating a golden, bubbly crust on top, making it irresistible.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for a potato gratin that will impress every time!
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's at the perfect temperature for baking.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and tomato sauce. Stir them together until smooth and well combined. Season with black pepper and oregano to taste. This sauce will create the creamy, tangy base that brings everything together.
Arrange the Potatoes: Take the boiled and quartered potatoes and spread them evenly in a greased baking dish. You can use any oven-safe dish, but a 9x9-inch square or 9x13-inch rectangular dish works perfectly for this recipe.
Layer the Ham and Mozzarella: Sprinkle half of the grated ham and mozzarella over the potatoes. The cheese and ham will melt into the potatoes, adding layers of flavor with every bite.
Add the Cream Cheese Sauce: Pour the prepared cream cheese and tomato sauce mixture evenly over the potatoes and ham. Spread it out with a spatula to ensure the sauce coats everything evenly.
Top with Remaining Ham and Cheese: Finish by adding the remaining grated ham and mozzarella on top. This final layer of cheese will create a beautiful, golden, bubbly crust when baked.
Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The cheese should be melted, and the edges should be slightly crispy.
Cool and Serve: Once the gratin is done, let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Why This Potato Gratin is Loved:
This easy potato gratin is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. The creamy texture from the cream cheese and mozzarella, combined with the savory ham and the subtle tang from the tomato sauce, creates a unique flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. It's the kind of dish that brings family and friends together around the table. Whether you’re serving it for holiday dinners, a family gathering, or just because you want to treat yourself, this gratin is a guaranteed hit.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Gratin:
- Use Russet Potatoes: Russets are the best for gratins as they hold their shape and absorb flavors wonderfully. They also develop a creamy texture after baking.
- Mix Up the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar or parmesan to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Double the Recipe for a Crowd: This dish is easy to scale up if you’re feeding a larger group. Just double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: You want the potatoes to be slightly firm before baking so they don’t turn mushy in the gratin.
Serving Suggestions:
This potato gratin pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside a roast chicken, grilled steak, or even a vegetarian salad for a well-rounded meal. It’s also a great accompaniment to BBQ ribs or roast turkey during the holidays.
Final Thoughts:
In just 35 minutes, you can prepare this simple yet decadent potato gratin that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The combination of creamy cheese, savory ham, and mild tomato sauce makes this dish irresistible and perfect for any occasion. With a few basic ingredients and easy steps, this gratin proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.
Give this gratin a try today—it’s the kind of dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Happy cooking!