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1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, until bubbly.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
6. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, half of the ham, and half of the chopped onion.
7. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the layered ingredients.
8. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, and onions, and pour the rest of the cheese sauce on top.
9. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs (if using) evenly over the top.
10. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
12. Let the gratin sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Variations & Tips
If you have picky eaters, feel free to swap out the ham for cooked chicken or turkey. You can also add vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers to make it a bit more nutritious. For a lighter version, use milk substitutes and reduce the amount of cheese. You can even experiment with different types of cheese – Swiss or Gruyère would add a delightful twist!
