When life feels a bit chaotic, comfort food like Easy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham can feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re using leftovers from a festive Easter dinner or making it fresh, this dish is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a hearty kick from the ham. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be serving up a crowd-pleaser in no time.
What Makes Scalloped Potatoes and Ham So Special?
Imagine layers of thinly sliced potatoes, savory ham, and gooey cheese all nestled in a rich, creamy sauce. The flavors meld together perfectly, making this dish irresistible for family dinners, potlucks, or even a quick weekday meal. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the memories you create while enjoying it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Potatoes | 6 cups (thinly sliced, 1/4”) | Use Russet or Yukon Gold for the best texture. |
| Ham | 2 cups | Cooked ham, diced (perfect for leftovers). |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons | Adds richness to the dish. |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1/4 cup | Thickens the creamy sauce. |
| Milk | 3 cups | Use regular or 2% milk for a creamy base. |
| Cheese | 2 cups | Cheddar or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella. |
| Dried Parsley | 1 teaspoon | For a pop of freshness. |
| Dried Chives | 1 teaspoon | Adds subtle onion-like flavor. |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Adjust to taste. |
| Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | For a slight kick of spice. |
Preparing Your Ingredients
1. Choosing the Right Potatoes
For the creamiest results, opt for Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. Their starchy nature helps create that velvety texture you love in scalloped potatoes.
2. Perfectly Slicing Potatoes
Using a mandoline slicer ensures uniform 1/4-inch slices, which cook evenly and make the dish visually appealing.
3. Ham Selection
Leftover Easter ham works wonders, but any cooked ham will do. The smoky, savory flavor balances the dish’s creaminess.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour, creating a smooth roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Stir until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add salt, pepper, dried parsley, and chives. Mix well.
3. Assemble the Layers
- Place half the potato slices in the prepared baking dish.
- Top with half the diced ham.
- Pour half of the creamy sauce evenly over the layer.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 25-30 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden brown.
Tips for the Best Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
1. Don’t Skip the Roux
The roux ensures a smooth and creamy sauce, preventing it from separating during baking.
2. Use Freshly Grated Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s texture. Grating your own makes a noticeable difference.
3. Test for Doneness
Pierce the potatoes with a fork. If it slides in easily, the dish is ready.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Easy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the dish. For a cozy family dinner, pair it with warm, crusty bread.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Sodium | 720mg |
FAQs About Easy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
2. What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
3. Can I Freeze Scalloped Potatoes and Ham?
Yes, freeze the dish after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
4. What Other Cheeses Can I Use?
Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese are excellent alternatives or additions to cheddar.
5. Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the roux.
6. How Do I Prevent a Watery Sauce?
Ensure the roux cooks thoroughly before adding milk. Using starchy potatoes also helps thicken the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
From its creamy sauce to the hearty ham, Easy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is a true comfort food. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and perfect for using up leftovers. Best of all, it brings people together around the table.
Try It Today!
There’s no time like now to enjoy this heartwarming dish. Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a plate of cheesy, creamy perfection. Your family will thank you, and your taste buds will sing!
Easy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Ingredients
- 6 cups potatoes thinly sliced (1/4 inch)
- 2 cups cooked ham diced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 2 cups cheese cheddar or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried chives
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Make the Sauce:
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in flour to create a smooth roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form.
- Cook until thickened (about 5-7 minutes), then add salt, pepper, parsley, and chives. Mix well.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Layer half of the potato slices in the baking dish.
- Add half of the diced ham and pour half the creamy sauce over it.
- Sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese.
- Repeat layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Bake:
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 25-30 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Notes
- For best results, use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold.
- Freshly grated cheese ensures a smoother, creamier sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.