Scalloped Potatoes with Ham Recipe
There’s nothing more comforting than a family meal made with tender scalloped potatoes with ham, a dish that fills the home with an irresistible aroma. The savory layers draw you in while the creamy texture makes every bite an experience. If you’re looking for a hearty meal that doesn’t require complex cooking skills, this scalloped potatoes recipe with ham is the perfect choice.
Every Sunday growing up, my grandmother would prepare a delightful spread. One dish that always earned a coveted spot at the table was her scalloped potatoes infused with diced ham. As a child, the meal marked a comforting end to the weekend, its creamy layers replenishing us for the coming week. To this day, the aroma of baked potatoes and ham takes me back to that cozy kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out given its simplicity and rich flavors. It’s a unique one-pot meal that requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy families. The use of basic ingredients allows each one to shine, while the addition of ham gives a delightful twist to a classic dish. You’ll love how versatile this dish is, accommodating either a family dinner or a holiday feast.
Ingredients Notes
For this recipe, you will need russet potatoes for their starchy nature, which helps in creating a creamy sauce. Use a smoked ham for added flavor depth. If you’re short on time, pre-sliced cheese can work, though freshly grated is preferable for melting seamlessly. The key here is freshness, so purchase the potatoes and ham close to preparation day.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly to prevent sticking and facilitate serving.
Step 2
Wash and peel the potatoes. Slice them thinly and uniformly to ensure even cooking and a smooth texture in every bite.
Step 3
Add a layer of potato slices at the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then add a layer of diced ham and shredded cheese.
Step 4
Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a generous layer of cheese on top. To enhance a golden crust, consider spiking with breadcrumbs.
Step 5
Pour in a mixture of cream and milk, ensuring it covers the layers without overflowing. Bake for 60-75 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Storage Options
Store leftovers of scalloped potatoes and ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, cut leftovers into portions and freeze up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven at 350°F until warm.
Variations & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half. Vegetarians can replace ham with mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary gives a refreshing aroma, perfect for experimenting with your menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet? Yes, sweet potatoes can be an innovative alternative. Keep in mind they may alter the overall sweetness, offering a unique flavor balance. Adjust cooking time as needed, since sweet potatoes may bake faster.
What’s the best way to reheat scalloped potatoes? Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover your baking dish with foil to maintain moisture. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until the dish is warmed through. You can also use a microwave-safe dish for individual servings and reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
How can I prevent my sauce from curdling? To prevent curdling, ensure you use fresh ingredients and gradually warm the milk or cream before combining it with other ingredients. Avoid high temperatures and hot spots by maintaining even oven heat.
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Scalloped Potatoes with Ham Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2.5 pounds potatoes thinly sliced
- 2 cups ham diced
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 0.5 cup onion chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter unsalted
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, add onions and cook until tender.
- Stir in flour, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until mixture comes to a boil and thickens.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the potatoes, ham, and cheese.
- Pour half of the sauce over layers and repeat.
- Cover and bake for 50 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
