Scalloped potatoes and ham is a warm, creamy dish that’s perfect for family gatherings. Layers of tender potatoes and juicy ham come together with tasty cheese and a rich sauce.
It’s like a cozy hug on a plate! I love making it when I want something comforting and filling. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover ham. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: The star of this dish! I prefer using Yukon Gold or russet potatoes for their creamy texture. If you’re short on time, pre-sliced potatoes in the refrigerated section can work too.
Ham: While cooked ham is traditional, you can substitute turkey or even cooked bacon for a different flavor. Vegetarians might like to use sautéed mushrooms instead.
Cheese: Cheddar is my first choice for that classic taste. Mixing in some mozzarella adds extra stretchiness. If you want a lighter version, use low-fat cheese options, but be aware that they may not melt as well.
Milk: Whole milk gives richness, but you can use 2% or even unsweetened almond milk for a lighter sauce. Just remember, it may alter the creaminess a bit.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Cheese Sauce?
Making cheese sauce can be tricky! The key is in creating a smooth roux first. Here’s how:
- Begin by melting the butter over medium heat.
- Mix in the flour slowly, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to avoid burning.
- When it’s bubbly and golden, gradually whisk in the milk. Keep stirring to prevent lumps.
- Cook until the mixture thickens and bubbles gently, then add the cheese.
Remember, if it seems too thick, add a splash more milk. If you want it thicker, just let it cook a little longer. Your sauce should be creamy and pourable!
How to Make Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or dried herbs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty dish takes about 15-20 minutes to prep and roughly 1 hour to bake. So, you’re looking at a total of about 1 hour and 15-20 minutes before you can dig in to your delicious scalloped potatoes and ham!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab a medium-sized baking dish and grease it with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Slice the Veggies and Ham:
Peel your potatoes and slice them thinly. Aim for about 1/8 inch for an even cook. Next, dice your cooked ham into small cubes so they spread nicely throughout the dish.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux, which will thicken your sauce. Keep stirring to ensure it doesn’t burn!
4. Add the Milk:
Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously. Keep cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and bubbles gently. After it’s nice and thick, take it off the heat.
5. Cheese It Up:
Stir in 2 cups of your shredded cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Then add the salt, pepper, and garlic/onion powder if you’re using them. Mix everything together well!
6. Layering the Dish:
In your greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom. Next, sprinkle half of the diced ham over the potatoes. Pour half of the cheese sauce over this layer.
7. Repeat the Layers:
Now, repeat the process: layer the remaining sliced potatoes, followed by the rest of the ham, and then pour the remaining cheese sauce on top.
8. Final Touch:
Sprinkle the last cup of shredded cheese over the top of everything for that delicious cheesy crust.
9. Bake it Up:
Cover the dish with foil and pop it in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This helps everything cook through and become wonderfully tender!
10. Golden and Bubbly:
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. The cheese should turn golden brown and bubble, and the potatoes will be fork-tender.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, let your scalloped potatoes and ham rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps set everything and makes serving easier. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley or dried herbs on top for a lovely finish!
Enjoy your comforting, creamy scalloped potatoes and ham—perfect for family gatherings or a delicious weeknight dinner!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold and russet potatoes work wonderfully due to their creaminess. You can also use red potatoes if you prefer a waxier texture, but they may not be as tender.
What if I Don’t Have Cooked Ham?
No problem! You can substitute it with cooked bacon, turkey, or even smoked sausage. For a vegetarian option, try using sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a different twist!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the dish up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
