Every time I make these Scalloped Potatoes and Ham, it brings me back to those cozy family dinners at my grandmother’s house. I can still hear the laughter, the clattering of dishes, and the savory aroma wafting through the air. Those memories are as cherished as the meal itself! There’s something about the creamy cheese, layers of tender potatoes, and savory ham that simply warms my heart. I know that when you sit down to a plate of this comfort food, you’ll feel that same warmth and connection to family. It’s not just a dish; it’s a tradition passed down through generations.
How to make Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Ingredients
Let’s gather the ingredients for this beloved dish. Below is a simple table listing everything you’ll need. Each component plays an important role in bringing the dish together, giving it that delicious, comforting flavor.
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Yukon Gold potatoes | 4 cups, thinly sliced |
| Smoked ham | 2 cups, diced |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups, shredded |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Onion | 1/2 cup, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Thyme (optional) | 1 tsp |
| Bread crumbs (for topping, optional) | 1/2 cup |
| Butter (for greasing) | 2 tbsp |
Personal note: I absolutely love adding a sprinkle of thyme for a bit of extra flavor—it brings everything together beautifully!
Cooking Steps
Let’s dive into how we make this wonderful dish. I’ll walk you through each step, making it easy for you to follow along.
1. Preheat the Oven
First, let’s preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This is a crucial step because it ensures that our scalloped potatoes bake evenly, resulting in that perfect golden bubbly topping.
2. Prepare the Dish
While the oven is heating, grab a nice 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it with 2 tablespoons of butter. This not only prevents sticking but also adds just a hint of flavor.
3. Slice the Potatoes
Next, you’ll want to get your Yukon Gold potatoes ready. Slice them thinly—about 1/8 inch thick. If you have a mandoline slicer, this is the perfect time to use it!
4. Layer the Ingredients
Now comes the fun part! Start layering your ingredients. First, lay half of the potato slices in a single layer at the bottom of the dish.
5. Add the Ham
After that, sprinkle half of the smoked ham, half of the chopped onion, and half of the minced garlic evenly over the potatoes.
6. Sprinkle the Cheese
Next up, add half of the sharp cheddar cheese on top. I always take a moment to savor how good it looks—melty cheese is one of the best sights!
7. Repeat the Layers
Now, it’s time to repeat the entire layering process. Lay down the remaining potato slices, followed by the remaining ham, onion, garlic, and cheese. It’s becoming more beautiful by the minute, isn’t it?
8. Make the Creamy Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of thyme if you’re using it. Pour this creamy goodness over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.
9. Add Toppings
If you’re using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the top layer. This adds a lovely crunchy texture, which I adore.
10. Cover and Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. This keeps all that moisture in, ensuring the potatoes become tender.
11. Uncover and Finish Baking
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. This is where the magic happens! Bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The smell will be irresistible!
12. Cool and Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—you don’t want to burn your tongue on that deliciousness!
Why I Love Making This Dish
Making Scalloped Potatoes and Ham isn’t just about the food; it’s about the memories and the heartwarming moments shared around the table. This dish reminds me of family gatherings, laughter, and special occasions. I can’t tell you how many smiles I’ve seen when I serve this! It’s the kind of food that brings people together, creating bonds and fostering connection. It’s pure comfort, and I find so much joy in sharing it with you.
What You’ll Need
You won’t need any fancy equipment for this dish, just some basics from your kitchen. A baking dish, a knife for slicing, a cutting board, and a whisk will be your best friends here. Having a mandoline can be helpful too, but it’s not necessary.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
- Slice your Yukon Gold potatoes.
- Layer the ingredients in the dish—potatoes, ham, onion, garlic, and cheese.
- Prepare the creamy mixture and pour it on top.
- Sprinkle with breadcrumbs if you wish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for another 15-20 minutes.
- Let it cool before serving!
Tips for Perfect Results
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that help make this dish even better. First, using Yukon Gold potatoes is key—they’re creamy and perfect for baking. If you want to amp up the flavor, try using fresh herbs or even sprinkling some nutmeg into the cream mixture. You’ll be amazed at the depth of flavor it adds. And remember, the longer you let it rest after baking, the better the flavors meld together!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables. Personally, I like to serve it with steamed broccoli or glazed carrots. They add a nice freshness that balances out the richness of the potatoes and ham. And don’t forget a warm loaf of bread to soak up that delicious creamy sauce!
Leftovers
One of the best things about Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is that it tastes even better the next day! To store leftovers, simply cover the dish with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual servings.
You won’t be disappointed with the leftovers; trust me, they’re just as comforting!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is a family favorite, you could also use Monterey Jack or even Gruyère for a more gourmet twist. I love experimenting with different cheeses depending on what I have at home!
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
You’re looking for that lovely bubbling on the top and a golden crust. You can also poke the center with a fork; the potatoes should be tender.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Sure! I often add a layer of sautéed spinach or peas for a pop of color and nutrition. Just remember to keep an eye on the cooking time, as extra veggies can change how quickly everything cooks.
Can I make this in advance?
You can, indeed! Prepare the dish up to the baking stage and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Just pop it into the fridge and bake it when you’re ready! It might need a little longer in the oven since it’ll be cold, so check it after 10-15 minutes.
Conclusion
This dish has become a staple in my kitchen and holds a special place in my heart. I’m truly excited for you to try these Scalloped Potatoes and Ham! I know you’ll see the smiles on your family’s faces as they dig into this delicious comfort food. It’s so easy to make, and the flavors are out of this world! Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out for you—your feedback means the world to me. Happy cooking, friends!