Irresistible Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe Perfect for Dinner

The smell of creamy scalloped potatoes baking in the oven, paired with savory ham, has a way of making any dinner feel extra special. This recipe is one of those dishes that brings people together—it’s warm, comforting, and oh-so-delicious. I remember the first time I made scalloped potatoes and ham for my family—it was an instant hit! The layers of tender potatoes and the smoky ham all blanketed in a rich, cheesy sauce made everyone ask for seconds. Trust me, this recipe is your ticket to a dinner that’s both impressive and surprisingly easy to pull off.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a cozy meal to share with loved ones, this scalloped potatoes and ham recipe fits the bill. It’s a wonderful way to use up leftover ham, and the creamy texture pairs perfectly with the slight saltiness of the meat. Plus, it’s a meal that doesn’t require a ton of prep work but tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen. Let’s dive right into what makes this recipe so irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This scalloped potatoes and ham recipe comes together in just under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
• Simple Ingredients: The recipe uses pantry staples like potatoes, milk, flour, and cheese—you likely already have these on hand!
• Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s something magical about the combination of creamy potatoes and salty ham. It’s the kind of dish that warms your soul.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday meal, a potluck, or a casual dinner, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. It’s a versatile recipe that works for everyone.

This isn’t your average scalloped potatoes recipe. With the addition of ham and a perfectly balanced cheesy sauce, it feels like a complete meal. Plus, the edges crisp up beautifully, giving you that golden-brown top that’s impossible to resist. It’s comfort food done right—creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor in every bite.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Potatoes: 5-6 medium-sized russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about ⅛-inch thick).
• Ham: 2 cups of cooked ham, diced into bite-sized pieces (great way to use leftovers!).
• Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted, for a rich and creamy sauce.
• All-purpose flour: 3 tablespoons to thicken the sauce.
• Milk: 3 cups, whole milk is best for creaminess, but you can substitute with 2% or a non-dairy option.
• Heavy cream: ½ cup for added decadence.
• Cheddar cheese: 2 cups, shredded (sharp cheddar works best for flavor).
• Onion: 1 small onion, finely diced (adds a subtle sweetness).
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (for extra flavor).
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Nutmeg: A pinch (optional, but adds depth to the dish).

Feel free to customize the ingredients to your liking—swap out the ham for cooked chicken or turkey if you prefer, or use gruyere cheese for a nutty twist. This recipe is all about making it your own!

Equipment Needed

To whip up this scalloped potatoes and ham recipe, you’ll need:

• Sharp knife: For slicing the potatoes and dicing the ham and onion.
• Mandoline slicer: Optional, but it makes slicing potatoes evenly a breeze.
• Large skillet: To prepare the creamy sauce.
• Whisk: For stirring the sauce without lumps.
• Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly to layer and bake the potatoes and ham.
• Aluminum foil: To cover the dish while baking.

If you don’t have a mandoline slicer, don’t worry—a sharp knife and a steady hand will do the trick. Just aim for even slices for consistent cooking. And if you’re in need of a good baking dish, I’ve used a simple glass one for years—it’s durable and easy to clean!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will prevent the potatoes from sticking.
2. Prepare the potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds, about ⅛-inch thick. Use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices, or carefully use a sharp knife.
3. Sauté the onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Create the sauce: Add the remaining butter to the skillet and let it melt. Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly, until the mixture forms a paste. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
5. Add the cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
6. Layer the dish: Arrange a layer of potato slices at the bottom of the baking dish. Top with a layer of diced ham, then pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the top. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce.
7. Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and finish baking: Uncover the dish and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Cool slightly and serve: Allow the dish to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and ensures you won’t burn your tongue!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for this recipe because they hold their shape and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Slice evenly: Uniform potato slices ensure even cooking. If some slices are thicker, they may stay undercooked.
• Don’t rush the sauce: Take your time when making the cheese sauce. Whisk constantly to avoid clumps and achieve a smooth texture.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.
• Watch the top: If the cheese starts browning too quickly, tent the dish with foil to prevent burning.

By following these tips, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and end up with a perfectly creamy, flavorful dish every time!

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best parts about this scalloped potatoes and ham recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Vegetarian version: Skip the ham and add layers of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for a veggie-packed dish.
• Gluten-free option: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or cornstarch.
• Seasonal twist: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a burst of flavor, or toss in some diced asparagus or peas during springtime.
• Cheese swap: Use gruyere or a mix of cheeses for a more gourmet flair.
• Spicy kick: For heat lovers, mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes into the cheese sauce.

Personally, I love adding a touch of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce—it complements the ham perfectly and adds a subtle smoky flavor!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This dish is best served warm, directly out of the oven. Here are my recommendations for serving and storing:

• Serving temperature: Serve hot, but let it cool slightly to allow the layers to set.
• Pairings: Serve alongside a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to round out the meal.
• Refrigerator storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

Over time, the flavors meld together even more, making leftovers just as delicious as the original dish!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional breakdown for this recipe per serving:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 3g

Potatoes provide a good source of vitamins C and B6, while ham adds protein to make this a satisfying meal. The cheddar cheese delivers calcium, though this dish is definitely more about indulgence than strict health benefits. If you’re watching your cholesterol, you can use reduced-fat milk and cheese to lighten things up.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to make, this scalloped potatoes and ham recipe is the answer! It’s a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and savory ham that works for any dinner occasion. Plus, you can easily adapt it to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs.

I love this recipe because it’s not just a meal—it’s a memory. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel at home, no matter where you’re eating it. Give it a try tonight, and let me know how it turned out! Leave a comment below or share your own twist on the recipe—I can’t wait to hear from you.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

FAQs

Can I make scalloped potatoes and ham ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What’s the best way to slice potatoes for this recipe?

A mandoline slicer works best for thin, even slices. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife will do the trick.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a slightly sweeter flavor and work well with the creamy sauce and ham.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting lumpy?

Whisk continuously as you add the milk and cream to the flour mixture. This ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce.

What’s the best kind of cheese for scalloped potatoes?

Sharp cheddar is my go-to for its strong flavor, but gruyere or Monterey Jack are great alternatives.

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