Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is a classic, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Layers of tender, thinly sliced potatoes are baked in a creamy sauce, combined with savory diced ham, and topped with melted cheese (if desired). This dish is rich, hearty, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a family dinner. The combination of creamy sauce, flavorful ham, and tender potatoes makes it a comforting meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 3 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 pounds white potatoes, sliced about 1/8″ thick
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and cook until the onion is tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the thyme and flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Turn the heat to low and gradually add the milk, whisking constantly between each addition. The mixture will initially be thick but will smooth out as you continue to whisk.
- Stir in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 minute, until it thickens slightly.
3. Layer the Potatoes and Ham:
- In the prepared baking dish, layer one-third of the sliced potatoes. Top with one-third of the diced ham and one-third of the sauce.
- Repeat the layers twice, ending with the sauce on top.
4. Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50 minutes.
- After 50 minutes, uncover the dish and bake for an additional 25-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbling.
5. Add Cheese (Optional):
- If using cheese, sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the dish during the last 15 minutes of baking. Continue to bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the dish to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving to help set the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham: Add 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, Gruyère, or mozzarella to the sauce for a creamy, cheesy version.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or leeks for extra flavor and texture.
- Herb Variations: Swap out thyme for rosemary or oregano for a different herbal flavor profile.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a slight kick.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes until hot.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until heated through. You can add a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.
10 FAQs About Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
- Can I use different types of potatoes? Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but russet potatoes are typically preferred for their starch content, which helps thicken the sauce.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare this dish a day ahead. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before cooking.
- Can I use ham steak instead of pre-diced ham? Yes, you can dice a ham steak into cubes and use it in place of pre-diced ham.
- What if I don’t want to use cheese? You can skip the cheese entirely. The dish is still rich and creamy without it.
- Can I use a different kind of broth? Yes, vegetable broth or ham broth would be good alternatives to chicken broth if you want to enhance the flavor.
- Is there a way to make this dish lighter? You can use reduced-fat milk and sour cream instead of heavy cream, and opt for a lighter cheese or skip the cheese altogether.
- Can I make this in a smaller dish? Yes, you can adjust the portion sizes by using a smaller baking dish. Just make sure the potatoes are still arranged in even layers.
- How do I know when the potatoes are tender? You can test the tenderness by piercing the potatoes with a fork. If the fork slides easily through the potatoes, they’re ready.
- Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Yes, you can make scalloped potatoes and ham in a slow cooker. Layer the ingredients as instructed, then cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Can I freeze this dish? Yes, scalloped potatoes and ham can be frozen. Just make sure it cools completely before freezing. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is a comforting, classic dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks. The creamy, savory sauce pairs perfectly with tender potatoes and ham, making it a satisfying meal that’s sure to please a crowd. Whether served as a side or a main course, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.