Scalloped potatoes and ham is a cozy dish that brings comfort to any table. Creamy layers of potatoes with tender bits of ham make it rich and satisfying!
This dish is a great way to use up leftover ham, plus it’s super easy to whip up. I love the cheesy goodness topped with a crunchy layer—what’s not to enjoy? 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, as they become tender and creamy when baked. If you need a low-carb option, try cauliflower slices instead, but the texture will be different.
Diced Cooked Ham: Leftover ham works great for this dish. For a vegetarian version, you could substitute with sautéed mushrooms or even chickpeas for added protein.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal, but you can use margarine or a dairy-free alternative based on your dietary needs. Just remember to adjust the salt in your recipe accordingly.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice tangy flavor. If you’re looking for variety, consider using Monterey Jack or even Gouda. They melt beautifully and add a different taste.
Onion: While optional, it adds wonderful flavor. If you’re not a fan of onion, you can skip it or replace it with a sprinkle of onion powder for a milder taste.
How Do You Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Making a smooth cheese sauce is all about creating a good roux and adding milk correctly. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start by melting the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion (if using) and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking it for about 1-2 minutes. This helps eliminate the floury taste.
- Slowly add in the milk while whisking continuously. This gradual addition helps prevent lumps.
- Keep stirring until the sauce thickens; about 5-7 minutes. If it gets too thick, you can always add a splash more milk.
- Finally, remove from heat and stir in the cheese until melted for that creamy finish.
How to Make Delicious Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 ½ cups diced cooked ham
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 1 hour for baking. You’ll enjoy a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to serving. Most of this time is baking, giving you a chance to relax while the flavors meld together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. If you’re using onion, add it now and sauté until it becomes soft, about 3 minutes. Next, sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which helps thicken your sauce. Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Remove it from the heat and stir in ¾ cup of the shredded cheese until it melts. Finally, season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder for added flavor.
3. Layer the Potatoes and Ham:
In your greased baking dish, start by arranging half of the potato slices in an even layer at the bottom. Next, sprinkle half of the diced ham over the potatoes. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over this layer.
4. Repeat the Layers:
Now, add the remaining potato slices on top, followed by the rest of the diced ham. Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the entire dish. Don’t forget to sprinkle the last ¼ cup of shredded cheese on the very top for a gooey finish!
5. Bake the Dish:
Cover your dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once baked, allow the dish to stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set a bit. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for color and a fresh touch.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes and ham! This dish is perfect as a comforting dinner idea or even as a side for special occasions.
Can I Use Raw Potatoes Instead of Pre-Cooked?
Yes, but you’ll need to bake them longer to ensure they cook through. Thinly slice the potatoes to help them cook evenly during baking. Consider increasing the baking time by an additional 20-30 minutes, checking for tenderness.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking point, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave, though the oven may help retain the creamy texture better.
Can I Use Other Cheeses?
Definitely! While sharp cheddar is delicious, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for more flavor. Just make sure the cheese melts well!
