Every time I make Scalloped Potatoes and Ham, I’m flooded with memories of family gatherings, laughter, and the warm aroma that fills my kitchen. It’s a dish that speaks to my heart and wraps me up in nostalgic memories of Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house. She would make the most luscious scalloped potatoes, layered so perfectly with chunks of ham that you could hardly wait to dig in. A single whiff of this dish transports me back to those cozy family moments, and I know that once you try it, you’ll feel that same warmth and comfort.
I believe food has a magical way of bringing us together, and this recipe is a wonderful example of that magic. It’s not just about the deliciousness—it’s about the stories that come with every bite. If you’ve ever craved a meal that feels like a hug, you’re in the right place! I can’t wait to share this recipe with you, and I know your family will relish it just as mine does!
How to make Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious dish. Keep in mind, the key ingredients are what bring out the flavors!
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well) | 4-5 medium |
| Ham (diced) | 2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 2 cups |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1-2 cups |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
| Fresh parsley | for garnish |
I love adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for that pop of color and flavor—it truly makes the dish even more appealing!
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for getting that lovely golden-brown crust on top.
2. Prepare the Dish
Grab a large baking dish—something about 9×13 inches works wonderfully. Lightly butter the bottom and sides to prevent sticking, and it’ll create a little extra flavor.
3. Slice Your Potatoes
Carefully wash your potatoes, then slice them thinly. You want about 1/8-inch thick pieces for even cooking. I recommend using a mandoline slicer if you have one; it saves time and creates uniform slices.
4. Dice the Ham
Next, take your ham and dice it into bite-sized pieces. You can use leftover ham from a holiday meal, or buy some ready-cooked ham from the store. Both options work beautifully!
5. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about a minute until it’s golden. This is your roux! Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk until it’s smooth and bubbling. Don’t forget to add in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then, slowly fold in most of the cheese—don’t be shy here! Reserve some cheese for the topping.
6. Layering Time
Now, let’s assemble! Start with a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of your baking dish. Then sprinkle a layer of diced ham over them. Pour a generous amount of your cheesy sauce over this layer. Repeat the process—layering potatoes, ham, and sauce—until you’ve used up all the ingredients, finishing with sauce on top.
7. Top it Off
Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top layer. You want all that cheesy goodness to beautifully melt and become bubbly!
8. Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for another 30 minutes, or until it’s bubbling and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and you’ll be counting down the minutes until you can dive in!
9. Let it Rest
Once it’s out of the oven, resist the urge to dig in right away. Let it rest for about 15 minutes. This helps the sauce set up a bit, making it easier to serve.
Why I Love Making This Dish
There’s something incredibly satisfying about making Scalloped Potatoes and Ham. The tenderness of the potatoes, the savory taste of the ham, and that gooey cheese sauce create a flavor explosion that I just can’t resist. It’s become my go-to comfort food, especially during cool weather or when I need that extra boost of warmth and love in my home.
What You’ll Need
Apart from the ingredients, you’ll need a few tools. A sharp knife for slicing the potatoes, a whisk for the sauce, and a large baking dish are essential. If you have a mandoline slicer, that will make life easier!
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Butter a large baking dish.
- Slice the potatoes thinly.
- Dice the ham.
- Make a cheese sauce on the stovetop.
- Layer the potatoes, ham, and cheese sauce in the prepared dish.
- Top with reserved cheese.
- Bake, covered, for 45 minutes, then uncovered for another 30 minutes.
- Let it rest before serving.
Tips for Perfect Results
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and good-quality cheese can make all the difference. It’s worth the extra effort!
Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allowing your dish to rest post-baking helps it hold together better when you serve it.
Experiment with Flavors: If you want to spice things up, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a handful of spinach for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham can be served as a main dish or as a side. I love pairing it with a crisp green salad to balance the creaminess. You can also add some roasted vegetables—like Brussels sprouts or carrots—to round out the meal.
Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, they store wonderfully! Simply cover the dish and refrigerate; it should last 3-4 days. When reheating, do so in the oven at a low temperature, or you can zap it in the microwave. Just add a splash of milk before heating to help maintain creaminess.
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While I love cheddar, you might want to try Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor. Just keep it cheesy!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble everything a day in advance, cover it well, and keep it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
You certainly can! Just be aware that the texture might change a bit. Make sure it’s well covered with foil before freezing.
Conclusion
This Scalloped Potatoes and Ham recipe holds a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait for you to try it! The first time I made it for my family, they couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was. It’s truly a dish that brings smiles and full bellies to the table. So, grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the comforting aroma take over your kitchen. I’m thrilled for you to experience the joy that this dish can bring to your home. Let me know how it turns out, and if your family loves it as much as mine does!