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Papas Gratinadas

Papas Gratinadas (Papas Satinadas)


  • Author: Sarah White

Description

Creamy Papas Gratinadas (aka Papas Satinadas) with layers of potatoes, crema, ham, bacon, and melted cheese—comfort food at its finest.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lb potatoes

  • 7 oz shredded Oaxaca cheese (or any melty cheese you prefer)

  • ⅔ cup ham (cut into small bites)

  • 1 cup bacon (cut into small bites)

  • 1 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream)

  • ¼ cup milk

  • 2 small eggs

  • 1 Tbsp smoked paprika (or chili powder)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste


Instructions

  • Boil the Potatoes:
    Place whole potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water. Add salt and bring to a boil. Cook until just tender (about 20–25 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.

  • Slice the Potatoes:
    Once cool enough to handle, peel (optional) and slice into thick rounds, about ½-inch thick.

  • Cook the Bacon:
    In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Reserve some bacon fat if desired for extra flavor.

  • Make the Cream Sauce:
    In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, crema, milk, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.

  • Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 355°F (180°C). Grease a medium casserole dish with butter or oil.

  • Assemble the Layers:
    Start with a light layer of the cream mixture at the bottom of the baking dish. Layer with sliced potatoes, followed by ham, bacon, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of cream mixture. Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with cheese on top.

  • Bake Covered:
    Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.

  • Bake Uncovered:
    Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until golden and bubbly on top.

  • Rest and Serve:
    Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing to allow it to set properly.

Notes

Use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for better texture; they hold up well when sliced.

Oaxaca cheese can be swapped with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of melty cheeses.

For more heat, add diced jalapeños or swap paprika for chipotle powder.

Don’t skip the resting step—it’s crucial for clean, structured servings.