Cheesy Potato Cake with Ham and Gruyère

Cheesy Potato Cake is a hearty, comforting dish that combines layers of thinly sliced potatoes with rich cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, all brought together with savory ham and a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. This dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Let’s start with the ingredients you’ll need to create this deliciously indulgent potato cake.

INGREDIENTS

• Russet Potatoes: 5 medium, thinly sliced lengthwise, these starchy potatoes provide the perfect texture for layering and absorbing the creamy sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons, helps to thicken the cream mixture for a richer sauce.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, adds a fragrant and savory depth to the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup (30 g), grated, provides a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses.
• Salt and Pepper: 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper, to season the potatoes and sauce.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240 mL), gives the dish its rich and creamy texture.
• Cheddar Cheese: 3 cups (300 g), shredded, offers a sharp, tangy flavor that melts beautifully.
• Gruyère Cheese: 3 cups (300 g), shredded, adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor, perfect for pairing with the cheddar.
• Ham: 9 slices, provides a savory and smoky element that complements the richness of the cheeses.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish, adds a touch of color and freshness to the finished dish.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 375˚F (190˚C).
2. Using a mandolin or a sharp knife, thinly slice the russet potatoes lengthwise. Set them aside.

Step 2: Layer the Potatoes and Cheese

1. In a 13-inch (33-cm) cast iron skillet, layer the slices of potatoes around the outside of the pan, overlapping them slightly. Continue layering the potatoes in a circular pattern, moving towards the center of the pan until it is fully covered.
2. Top the first layer of potatoes with a third of the shredded cheddar cheese, a third of the shredded Gruyère cheese, and half of the ham slices.
3. Add another layer of potato slices, following the same pattern around the outside and then the center of the pan.
4. Top this layer with another third of the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, along with the remaining ham slices.
5. Add a final layer of potato slices, focusing on covering the center of the pan.
6. Finish by topping the potatoes with the remaining cheddar and Gruyère cheeses.

Step 3: Bake the Potato Cake

1. Cover the skillet with greased aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
2. Remove the skillet from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 400˚F (200˚C).

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Slowly add in the heavy cream, whisking until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Finish Baking

1. Uncover the skillet and pour the cream mixture evenly over the top of the potatoes.
2. Bake the potato cake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and bubbly.

Step 6: Cool, Slice, and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the potato cake to cool for at least 30 minutes to set.
2. Slice the potato cake into wedges, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve.

Serving and Storage Tips

The Cheesy Potato Cake is best served warm, allowing the layers of melted cheese, tender potatoes, and savory ham to meld together perfectly. Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain the crispy texture of the cheese topping.

Helpful Notes

This recipe is versatile and can be customized to your taste. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach between the layers for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as fontina or gouda, to create your own unique version of this dish.

If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, a regular oven-safe skillet or a baking dish will work just as well. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly if using a different size or type of dish.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Julia Child: Recommends using a mandolin for uniform potato slices, which ensures even cooking and a beautiful presentation.

Chef Jacques Pépin: Suggests adding a touch of nutmeg to the cream mixture for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cheese and potatoes.

Chef Alton Brown: Advises letting the potato cake cool for the full 30 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set and hold their shape when served.