Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is a cozy dish that combines creamy cheese sauce with tender potatoes and savory ham. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
This dish is a family favorite in my house; it’s so easy to make! I love serving it with a side salad for a comforting meal that feels special without much hassle.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for this dish. They hold their shape well when baked. If you prefer, you can use red potatoes as a colorful alternative. Just remember that waxier potatoes may lead to a creamier texture!
Ham: Cooked ham is key! If you don’t have ham, try using cooked chicken or turkey for a lighter option. A vegetarian version can incorporate sautéed mushrooms or extra veggies instead.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk works best for a creamy sauce, but you can sub in almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free alternative. Just ensure they are unsweetened for balance in flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its flavor kick. If you want to mix it up, try Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a blend of cheeses if you prefer a more complex taste.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh is best! You can use shallots instead of onion for a milder flavor. For garlic lovers, don’t hesitate to add an extra clove or two for that garlicky goodness!
How Can I Ensure My Sauce Isn’t Lumpy?
Creating a smooth sauce is crucial to a great scalloped potato dish. Here’s how to avoid lumps in your roux:
- Start by melting the butter over medium heat, and add in your garlic and onions first. This builds flavor.
- When adding flour, make sure you stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. The heat will help the flour absorb the butter.
- Gradually whisk in the milk. It helps to add a little bit at a time while whisking vigorously. This reduces the chances of clumping.
- Keep stirring until the sauce thickens; patience is key! A smooth, creamy consistency makes all the difference.
Using these techniques will help you avoid lumpy sauces, resulting in perfectly creamy scalloped potatoes!
How to Make Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Then, you’ll need around 1 hour for baking – 45 minutes covered and 20-25 minutes uncovered. So, in total, expect to spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray so that your scalloped potatoes don’t stick!
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Next, grab a medium saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Add in the finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re softened and smelling delicious!
3. Create the Roux:
Now, it’s time to make your roux! Stir in the flour and let it cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. This helps avoid lumps and gives your sauce a nice thickness.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
Slowly whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens up nicely, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to season the sauce with salt, pepper, and optional thyme for extra flavor!
5. Add Cheese:
Remove the sauce from heat, and stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is nice and smooth. This is where the magic happens!
6. Layer the Potatoes and Ham:
In your greased baking dish, start layering! First, spread half of the sliced potatoes evenly. Then, sprinkle half of the diced ham on top and pour half of the cheese sauce over it. Yum!
7. Repeat the Layers:
Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, ham, and cheese sauce. Make sure everything is evenly distributed for a perfectly cooked dish.
8. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the last ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top layer. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust when it bakes!
9. Bake:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven for 45 minutes. Afterwards, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly!
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the scalloped potatoes and ham cool for about 5-10 minutes to set. This makes serving easier! Finally, garnish with some fresh parsley for a lovely touch. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy casserole with savory ham!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are great for this recipe, you can also use red potatoes. Just keep in mind that waxier potatoes will give a creamier texture, though they may not hold their shape as well.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance! Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add about 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
What Should I Do With Leftover Ham?
If you have leftover ham from another meal, feel free to use it here! Just dice it up and substitute it in for the cooked ham in this recipe. You can also use turkey for a lighter version if you desire!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for quick reheating!
