Dauphinoise Potatoes with Ham Hock and Mustard – Creamy & Flavorful Recipe

Dauphinoise potatoes are the epitome of indulgent comfort food, and when combined with smoky ham hock and tangy mustard, they transform into something truly spectacular. This dish takes the traditional French gratin to a new level, adding a rich, meaty depth that makes it perfect as a side dish or a hearty main course.

What Makes Dauphinoise Potatoes So Special?

Dauphinoise potatoes are a classic French dish consisting of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, garlicky sauce. What sets them apart from other potato dishes is their silky texture, thanks to the slow baking process that allows the potatoes to absorb all the flavors of the cream and seasonings. The addition of ham hock and mustard introduces a delicious umami and tangy contrast that cuts through the richness, making every bite irresistible.

Ingredients for Dauphinoise Potatoes with Ham Hock and Mustard

For the Potatoes:

• 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Maris Piper), peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon thyme leaves (fresh or dried)
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but adds warmth)

For the Ham Hock & Mustard Layer:

• 1 smoked ham hock, cooked and shredded (about 1 ½ cups of meat)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
• ½ cup grated Gruyère cheese (or sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor)

For the Topping:

• ½ cup Gruyère cheese, grated
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons butter, cubed

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ham Hock

1. Place the ham hock in a large pot, cover with water, and simmer for 2-3 hours until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
2. Once cooked, remove the ham hock, let it cool slightly, and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
3. Mix the shredded ham with Dijon and whole-grain mustard, then set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dauphinoise Potatoes

4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. In a saucepan, heat the cream, milk, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and nutmeg over medium heat. Stir until warm but do not boil. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Layer the Dish

6. In a greased baking dish (9×13-inch), arrange a layer of potato slices, slightly overlapping.
7. Spread half of the ham hock mixture over the potatoes and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
8. Repeat with another layer of potatoes and ham hock, finishing with a final layer of potatoes.

Step 4: Bake & Finish

9. Pour the warm cream mixture evenly over the potatoes, allowing it to seep through.
10. Sprinkle the top with Gruyère and Parmesan cheese, then dot with butter cubes.
11. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
12. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

13. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving for the flavors to settle.

Serving Suggestions

This Dauphinoise Potatoes with Ham Hock and Mustard pairs beautifully with:

• Roast chicken or steak for a comforting meal
• Steamed greens or a fresh salad to balance the richness
• A glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc

FAQs About Dauphinoise Potatoes with Ham Hock and Mustard

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate before baking, then reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

2. What’s the best potato variety for Dauphinoise?

Yukon Gold and Maris Piper are the best choices as they hold their shape while providing a creamy texture.

3. Can I substitute ham hock with another meat?

Absolutely! Try using bacon, pancetta, or shredded chicken if ham hock is unavailable.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

5. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes! While Gruyère is traditional, you can substitute with cheddar, fontina, or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Dauphinoise Potatoes with Ham Hock and Mustard is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dish that takes comfort food to a whole new level. The combination of silky potatoes, smoky ham hock, and tangy mustard creates a flavor explosion that’s both sophisticated and satisfying. Whether served as a hearty side or the star of the meal, this dish is sure to impress your guests. So, give it a try and indulge in the ultimate cheesy, creamy potato experience!

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