Step 1

Have your potatoes washed (and peeled, if preferred) and cut them thin (about1/4 inch) or use a mandolin slicer. Add them to a bowl and add chopped cooked ham too. Season with salt and pepper and give them a good toss.

Step 2

In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons butter on medium heat. Stir in flour gradually and whisk until smooth. Add grated cheese too and whisk. Gradually add milk and bring to a boil. Season with salt and pepper and add some of the dried herbs too. Cook and stir for 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 3

Preheat oven to 375F/ 190C.

Step 4

Prepare a 13x9 inch baking dish and grease it with some butter. Add half the potato and ham mix to the baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with half of the sauce. Add the other half potato mix to the tray and pour oven the remaining sauce, making sure that the whole area is covered by the sauce.

Step 5

Cover with foil and bake at 375F/ 190C for almost 70 minutes or until potatoes are tender (check them with a fork, if you can easily pierce them, they are done)

Step 6

Remove from oven, remove the foil, sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese on top, add a bit more dried herbs and bake, uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, until the top with golden and bubbly.