Oven-baked potatoes with ham

Delicious Baked Ham and Potato Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction

Baked ham and potatoes are a recipe that brings comfort and joy to every meal. This easy-to-make recipe combines the savory flavors of roasted potatoes with the crispy texture of ham and the creamy taste of melted cheese. It’s a versatile dish, perfect for family lunches or quick dinners. The origins of this recipe are deeply rooted in culinary traditions, and each cook has added a personal touch over time. I invite you to discover how to prepare it easily and bring a touch of magic to your kitchen!

Ingredients

- 5-6 large potatoes (about 1.5 kg)
- 1 piece of ham (about 300 g)
- 150 g of cheese
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons of sweet paprika

Ingredient Details

- Potatoes: Choose large, firm potatoes that have no spots or visible roots. Red or white potatoes are excellent options for this recipe, having the right texture.
- Ham: Use quality ham, preferably smoked ham for a more intense flavor. You can also experiment with other types of meat, such as jambon or sausages.
- Cheese: Choose a cheese that melts well. You can use cow cheese, mozzarella, or even a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
- Spices: Sweet paprika can be replaced with smoked paprika for an extra flavor kick, and adding herbs like oregano or thyme can make the dish even tastier.

Preparation Instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Start by peeling the potatoes. Wash them well under running water to remove any impurities. Cut them into round slices about 1 cm thick. If desired, you can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients.

2. Arranging in the tray:
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent the potatoes from sticking. Arrange the potato slices in a single layer, ensuring that each slice has enough space to brown evenly.

3. Seasoning:
- Drizzle the potato slices with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. Use your hands to gently rub the spices onto each slice so that they distribute evenly.

4. Adding the ham:
- Cut the ham into large cubes. Place a piece of ham on each potato slice. This step will add a savory flavor to every bite.

5. Initial baking:
- Cover the tray with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Bake the potatoes for 40-45 minutes. This step allows the potatoes to soften and absorb the flavors of the ham.

6. Adding the cheese:
- After 45 minutes, remove the tray from the oven and carefully remove the aluminum foil. Grate the cheese on a fine grater and sprinkle it evenly over the potatoes and ham. Put the tray back in the oven for another 5 minutes or until the cheese melts and starts to brown.

7. Serving:
- Remove the tray from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or pickles, which add a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical Tips

- For added flavor, you can add slices of onion or garlic between the layers of potatoes to give a more intense taste to the dish.
- If you want a vegetarian option, you can replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of grilled vegetables.
- To speed up the baking time, you can pre-boil the potatoes for 10-15 minutes before putting them in the oven.

Nutritional Information

This recipe is rich in carbohydrates from the potatoes, protein from the ham and cheese, and healthy fats from the olive oil. A serving of baked ham and potatoes contains approximately 400-450 calories, depending on the amount of cheese and ham used. It's a satisfying meal that provides energy for an active day.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can use sweet potatoes for a healthier option with a different taste.

- What other types of meat can I use?
You can experiment with chicken, turkey, or even bacon for a more intense flavor.

- How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and the next day you can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

Serving and Pairing

Baked ham and potatoes pair wonderfully with a light white wine or a craft beer. A summer salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese will perfectly complement this dish. Additionally, a serving of pickles or a garlic yogurt sauce can add an extra dimension to the dish.

In conclusion, baked ham and potatoes are not only a simple recipe but also a dish that can be adapted and personalized according to your preferences. So, grab the ingredients and enjoy a delicious meal that will bring smiles to your loved ones' faces!