Scalloped Ham and Potatoes: A Comforting, Creamy Dish for Any Occasion

Scalloped Ham and Potatoes is a classic comfort dish that combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and a rich, creamy sauce baked to perfection. It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy dinner. With just a few ingredients and a little time in the oven, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying dish that’s sure to please everyone.

Personal Story & Background

I’ve always loved dishes that are hearty and comforting, and Scalloped Ham and Potatoes has always been one of those meals that brings people together. Growing up, my mom would make it for family gatherings and Sunday dinners, and the smell of it baking in the oven was enough to get everyone excited. There’s just something about the combination of creamy, cheesy potatoes and savory ham that feels like a hug in a dish.

This version of Scalloped Ham and Potatoes is a bit of a family tradition, and it’s one I love making for special occasions or even as a simple weeknight dinner. It’s easy to throw together, but it’s the kind of dish that feels special. And let’s not forget the crispy, golden top—one of the best parts!

Ingredient Notes

• Potatoes: Russet potatoes are my go-to for scalloped potatoes because they hold their shape well and create a creamy texture when baked. Yukon Golds work well too if you prefer a slightly creamier potato. Just make sure to slice them thinly for even cooking.
• Ham: This dish is a great way to use up leftover ham, but you can also use deli ham or any cooked ham you like. Dice it into bite-sized pieces to ensure every bite has some ham in it. If you prefer a smoky flavor, a smoked ham will add even more depth.
• Heavy cream & milk: A mix of heavy cream and milk creates the perfect creamy sauce for the potatoes and ham. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with more milk or half-and-half, but the richness of the cream really makes the dish stand out.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese gives this dish its deliciously tangy flavor. You can use other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a combination for added creaminess and flavor.
• Butter: The butter helps create a rich, flavorful sauce and ensures that the potatoes get tender and golden in the oven.
• Flour: A little flour helps thicken the sauce and give it that perfect creamy consistency.
• Garlic: I love adding a bit of garlic to the sauce—it adds an aromatic layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the ham and cheese.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika are all you need to season the sauce. Paprika also adds a little color to the top, making it even more appetizing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to ensure your scalloped potatoes don’t stick.

2. Prepare the potatoes

Peel the potatoes (if desired) and slice them thinly, about 1/8-inch thick. The thinner the slices, the more evenly they’ll cook, so be sure to slice them uniformly. Set aside.

3. Make the sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Then, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually add the heavy cream and milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Stir in the salt, pepper, and paprika. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.

4. Assemble the dish

Layer the sliced potatoes and ham in the greased baking dish, alternating between the two. Once all the ingredients are layered, pour the creamy sauce over the top, making sure the potatoes and ham are evenly coated.

5. Add cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. If you’re feeling extra cheesy, you can add a little more cheese than the recipe calls for!

6. Bake the dish

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.

7. Let it cool and serve

Once the scalloped ham and potatoes are done, let them cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This gives the sauce a chance to set, making it easier to serve in neat slices.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

1. Slice potatoes thinly and uniformly: The key to perfectly cooked potatoes in scalloped potatoes is to slice them evenly. If you have a mandoline slicer, it’s a great tool to ensure consistent thickness.
2. Don’t skip the foil: Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking helps the potatoes cook evenly and retain moisture. The last 30 minutes without foil allows the cheese to get nice and golden.
3. Season the sauce well: Taste the sauce before pouring it over the potatoes, and make sure it’s seasoned properly. It should be savory with a little balance of richness from the cream. Adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
4. Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your sauce. Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a smoother, creamier finish.

Serving Suggestions

• Green vegetables: Serve this dish with steamed green beans, broccoli, or asparagus for a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the creamy potatoes.
• Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the scalloped potatoes and ham.
• Dinner rolls: Warm, buttery dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce left on your plate.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Leftover scalloped ham and potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes! While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack. Just make sure to choose a cheese that melts well.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven as directed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the cold temperature.
3. Can I make it without ham? Absolutely! If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and add extra vegetables like sautéed onions, mushrooms, or spinach for more flavor.

Conclusion

Scalloped Ham and Potatoes is a classic dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen, whether for holidays, family gatherings, or a cozy weeknight meal. The creamy sauce, tender potatoes, and savory ham create the perfect balance of flavors, and it’s the kind of comfort food that everyone loves. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do—it’s a timeless dish that always feels like home. Let me know how it turns out, and feel free to share your own twists in the comments!

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