Scalloped potatoes and ham is a cozy dish that brings cheesy goodness to your table. Soft potatoes are layered with bits of ham and smothered in creamy sauce—yum!
This dish is a family favorite around here. It’s so easy to make, and the warm, cheesy layers are perfect for sharing. I often serve it with a side salad for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using Russet potatoes for their starchy texture, which creates a creamy result. If you prefer waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold, they will work too, but the texture will be different.
Ham: Diced cooked ham adds a nice boost of flavor. If you’re vegetarian, you can use sautéed mushrooms or some smoky tofu as a substitute to give that umami depth.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try reduced-fat cheese, or go for mozzarella for a milder taste.
Milk: Whole milk makes the sauce rich, but 2% or even a non-dairy milk (like almond or oat) can work, just be careful with flavoring to maintain richness.
Thyme: While optional, dried thyme adds lovely earthiness. If you don’t have it, Italian seasoning can be a great substitute. Fresh herbs like rosemary can also work in a pinch.
How Do You Make the Cheese Sauce Smooth?
Creating a smooth cheese sauce is key to the dish’s creaminess. Start by making a roux with butter and flour, which helps thicken the sauce. It’s important to whisk continuously as you gradually add in the milk.
- Make sure to cook the roux for just a minute or so; you don’t want it to brown.
- When adding milk, do it slowly and whisk constantly to avoid lumps. You’ll know the sauce is ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
- Finally, adding the cheese off the heat will help it melt smoothly without clumping.
How to Make Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 6 large potatoes (about 3 lbs), peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy and comforting dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 1 hour to bake, so you can expect a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. Get ready to enjoy delicious scalloped potatoes and ham!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until they’re softened and smell wonderful, about 3-4 minutes. Then, sprinkle in the flour and stir it to make a roux, cooking it for about 1-2 minutes without letting it brown.
3. Add the Milk:
Now, gradually whisk in the milk—you want to avoid lumps, so keep whisking as you pour! Continue to cook this mixture until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 2 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until they melt into a smooth sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and thyme if you like, then remove the pan from heat.
4. Layer the Ingredients:
Grab your greased baking dish and start layering! First, arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom. Next, sprinkle half of the diced ham over the potatoes, and pour half of the cheese sauce on top. Repeat this order with the rest of the potatoes, ham, and cheese sauce.
5. Bake the Dish:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for another 20-25 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the top is all golden and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, take your dish out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with some chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve warm. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Russet potatoes are great for their creamy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly waxier texture. Just be sure to slice them evenly for consistent cooking!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make scalloped potatoes and ham gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch as a thickening agent. Just mix it with a bit of cold milk before adding to the sauce.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to bake it.
What Are Some Good Storage Tips for Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy, if necessary.
