Scalloped potatoes and ham is a cozy dish that brings together creamy, cheesy potatoes layered with tasty bits of ham. It’s baked to bubbly perfection and makes a great comfort meal!
When I make this, the smell fills the house and gets everyone ready for dinner. Plus, who can resist that cheesy goodness? I think I might have to sneak a few bites before it even hits the table! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend Yukon Gold or Russet for their creamy texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, sweet potatoes can be a fun twist. Just note they will add a different flavor!
Ham: Cooked ham is key here for flavor and protein. If you want a lighter choice, turkey ham or even cooked chicken can work well too. For a vegetarian version, consider using sautéed mushrooms instead.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk gives a rich sauce. For a lower-fat option, you can use skim milk, or try unsweetened almond milk. Just keep in mind it might change the creaminess.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese adds that classic taste. I love a good sharp cheddar for more flavor. If you’re out of cheddar, gouda or mozzarella are nice substitutes.
Onion: I included onions for added depth. If you’re not a fan, feel free to skip them or substitute with a sprinkle of onion powder for a milder taste.
How Do You Make Sure the Cheese Sauce Is Smooth and Creamy?
The cheese sauce is the heart of this dish, and getting it right can be tricky. Here are some simple steps to ensure your sauce turns out smooth:
- Start with melting the butter and sautéing the onion. This adds a great base flavor.
- When adding flour to form a roux, stir constantly for just a couple of minutes. Don’t let it brown; you want it pale.
- Whisk in the milk slowly. Start with a small amount to combine easily, then gradually add the rest while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Once thickened, remove from heat before adding cheese! This prevents the cheese from separating and becoming greasy.
Following these steps will help you achieve a perfect, creamy cheese sauce every time!
How to Make Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 4 large potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or extra butter for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and roughly 1 hour of baking. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 20 minutes to create this creamy, cheesy dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Peel and thinly slice the potatoes about 1/8 inch thick. Uniform slices ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. If you’re using onion, add it now and sauté for 2–3 minutes until it’s translucent. Next, stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, constantly stirring to form a roux—just make sure it doesn’t brown!
4. Whisk in the Milk:
Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for another 4–5 minutes, stirring until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce. Remove from heat and fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
5. Layer the Ingredients:
In your prepared baking dish, lay down half of the sliced potatoes evenly. Next, spread half of the diced ham over the potatoes, followed by half of the cheese sauce. Repeat this layering with the remaining potatoes, ham, and cheese sauce.
6. Top with Extra Cheese:
For that golden bubbly finish, sprinkle a bit more shredded cheddar cheese on top of the final layer.
7. Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for 45 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
8. Rest and Serve:
Take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes—this helps the layers set a bit. Finally, garnish with the freshly chopped parsley before serving! Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and flavorful scalloped potatoes and ham!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are ideal for a creamy texture, you can use red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. Just remember that sweet potatoes will alter the dish’s taste.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even lentils for protein. You can also use vegetable broth instead of milk for the sauce, just make sure to adjust the seasonings for added flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
Can I Freeze Scalloped Potatoes and Ham?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Make sure it’s fully cooled and place it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. It should be good for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to enjoy it again!
