Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
A rich and creamy baked casserole with tender sliced potatoes, savory diced ham, and a velvety cheese sauce. This classic American comfort food is perfect for a family dinner and a great way to use leftover ham.
For 6 servings
9 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- a.Generously grease a 9x13 inch (3-quart) baking dish with butter.
- 2
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat
- a.Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- 3
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant
- a.Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a blond roux. This cooks out the raw flour taste.
- 4
Gradually pour in the warm milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps
- a.Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- 5
Remove the saucepan from the heat
- a.Stir in 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Assemble the casserole by arranging one-third of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared dish. Top with half of the diced ham, then pour one-third of the cheese sauce over the top. Repeat the layers once more: potatoes, remaining ham, and sauce. Finish with a final layer of the remaining potatoes and pour the last of the sauce over them, ensuring all potatoes are submerged.
- 7
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes
- a.The potatoes should be starting to get tender.
- 8
Step 8
- a.Carefully remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- 9
Step 9
- a.Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and thicken further. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the creamiest texture. Waxy potatoes (like red potatoes) hold their shape but won't blend into the sauce as well.
- 2A mandoline slicer is the best tool for achieving uniformly thin potato slices (1/8-inch), which ensures even cooking.
- 3Shred your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
- 4Warming the milk before adding it to the roux is key to a lump-free, smooth sauce.
- 5If the top is browning too quickly during the uncovered baking stage, loosely tent it with foil.
- 6For make-ahead convenience, assemble the casserole without the final cheese topping, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You may need to add 10-15 minutes to the initial covered baking time.
Adapt it for your goals.
Cheese Blend
Swap out the cheddar for a mix of Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or smoked Gouda for a more complex flavor profile.
Vegetable MedleyVegetable Medley
Incorporate a layer of steamed broccoli florets, sautéed mushrooms, or sweet peas for added nutrients and flavor.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a finely diced jalapeño (sautéed with the onion) to the cheese sauce for a bit of heat.
VegetarianVegetarian
Omit the ham and add extra vegetables like caramelized onions, spinach, and bell peppers to make a delicious vegetarian scalloped potato dish.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of High-Quality Protein
The ham and cheese in this dish provide a significant amount of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining overall body function.
Rich in Calcium
Thanks to the generous amounts of milk and cheddar cheese, this casserole is an excellent source of calcium, a vital mineral for strong bones and teeth, as well as proper nerve and muscle function.
Provides Energy
Potatoes are a great source of complex carbohydrates, which the body uses as its primary fuel source, providing sustained energy to get you through your day.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of this recipe contains approximately 635 calories. This can vary based on the specific ingredients used, such as the fat content of the ham and milk.