Crespelle alla Valdostana: Delicious Italian Recipe for Savory Crepes

Try Crespelle alla Valdostana, a traditional Italian dish featuring savory crepes filled with ham and cheese, perfect for a hearty meal.

Introduction

Have you ever tried Crespelle alla Valdostana? This typical regional dish features savory crepes filled with cooked ham and fontina cheese, all enveloped in a creamy béchamel for a delicious gratin. The Alpine tradition meets two staples of French cuisine, resulting in a rich and hearty meal perfect for colder days or as a festive first course.

The basic recipe is simple: just prepare the individual components and then assemble them to guarantee soft and gooey baked crepes. If just looking at them makes your mouth water, get ready to make some irresistible Crespelle alla Valdostana!

Don’t miss these tasty variations:

• Crespelle with Mushroom Cream and Fontina
• Crespelle with Speck, Radicchio, and Fontina
• Crespelle with Ham, Brie, and Walnuts
• Crespelle with Gorgonzola and Radicchio

Ingredients

• For the crepes:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• For the filling:
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup fontina cheese, grated
• For the béchamel sauce:
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup grated cheese for topping

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, eggs, milk, and salt until smooth to prepare the crepe batter. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux, then gradually add the milk, whisking until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, and pour in a ladle of batter, swirling to coat the pan evenly. Cook until the edges are golden, then flip and cook for an additional minute.
4. Repeat with the remaining batter, stacking the crepes on a plate as you go.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. To assemble, fill each crepe with ham and fontina cheese, then roll them up and place them in a baking dish.
7. Pour the béchamel sauce over the crepes and sprinkle with grated cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Conclusion

Enjoy your Crespelle alla Valdostana hot, paired with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. This dish brings a taste of Italy right into your home, perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners!