- 2 pounds small to medium (2- to 3-inch-wide) yellow-fleshed potatoes such as Yukon Gold
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2/3 cup whole milk
- 1/2 pound Crucolo or Asiago Fresco cheese, coarsely grated (2 1/2 cups)
- 2 ounces (3/4-inch-thick) slices Italian speck (preferably from Alto Adige), cut into 3/4-inch-wide julienne strips
- Cover potatoes with cold water by 1 inch in a 4- to 5-quart pot and add salt, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, until potatoes are tender when pierced with a sharp knife, 15 to 20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook milk and cheese in a 2-quart heavy saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally with a whisk or wooden spoon, just until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth (do not boil), 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in speck.
- Drain potatoes in a colander and cut in half. Serve with sauce poured over them.