Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup Smithfield ham, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Special equipment needed:
- Mandoline slicer (optional)
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
3. Layer the sliced sweet potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish.
4. Sprinkle half of the diced Smithfield ham on top of the sweet potatoes.
5. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it comes to a simmer.
6. Remove the cream from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Pour half of the cream sauce over the ham and sweet potatoes in the baking dish.
8. Repeat the layers of sweet potatoes, ham, and cream sauce.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
11. Let the gratin cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 390
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Smithfield ham can be substituted with any type of ham or bacon.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with any type of grated cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced onions or garlic to the layers for extra flavor.
- Top the gratin with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added crunch.
- Use a combination of sweet potatoes and regular potatoes for a different flavor and texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a mandoline slicer to get even slices of sweet potato.
- Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cream sauce to thicken.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storage instructions:
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the gratin in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Green beans with almonds
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the gratin is too dry, add a little more cream or milk to the sauce.
- If the top is browning too quickly, cover with foil and continue baking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the sweet potatoes are cooked through before serving.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before eating.
Food history:
- Gratin dishes originated in French cuisine and typically consist of a creamy sauce and a topping of cheese or breadcrumbs.
Flavor profiles:
- The sweet potatoes add a sweet and earthy flavor, while the Smithfield ham adds a salty and savory flavor. The cream sauce and Parmesan cheese add richness and depth of flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the gratin as a side dish for a holiday meal or special occasion.
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