Traditional Scalloped Potatoes with Ham

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour 15 min
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

There's something so comforting about a dish of scalloped potatoes with ham, especially when it's homemade. This recipe is a classic, combining creamy potatoes with savory ham and a cheesy topping. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a holiday side dish!

Ingredients for Traditional Scalloped Potatoes with Ham

The star of the show is definitely the russet potatoes, which are perfect for baking and absorb flavors beautifully. The ham adds a savory depth and makes this dish hearty. The whole milk creates a creamy sauce that ties everything together. Butter and flour are used to make a roux, which is the base of our sauce. Adding onion introduces a subtle sweetness, while salt, black pepper, and garlic powder enhance the flavors. Finally, topping with shredded cheddar cheese gives a delightful cheesy crust.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a crispy top, broil for the last 3-5 minutes.
  • Use a mandoline for uniformly thin potato slices.
  • Swap cheddar for gruyere or Swiss for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or steamed green beans. For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted chicken or grilled pork chops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, Yukon Golds work well too, but they have a smoother texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish the day before and refrigerate. Bake on the day of serving.

Traditional Scalloped Potatoes with Ham Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that everything will cook evenly once it goes in. While the oven heats, peel and thinly slice your potatoes. Try to keep the slices uniform for even cooking.

Next, grab a large saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and let it cook until it turns translucent. This should take about 5 minutes. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to form a roux. This is your flavor base.

Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly. You’re aiming for a smooth sauce, so keep whisking until it thickens. It should resemble a creamy soup.

In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, start layering. Place half of the potato slices in the dish, spread them out evenly. Then, sprinkle the diced ham over the potatoes. Pour half of your sauce over this layer. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, ham, and sauce.

Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Cover the dish with foil and pop it into the preheated oven. Let it bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.

Once it’s out of the oven, give it a few minutes to cool. This makes serving easier and allows the flavors to meld together a bit more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make with simple ingredients.
  • Great use for leftover ham.
  • A crowd-pleaser at gatherings and family dinners.
  • Rich, creamy texture with a cheesy finish.

Ingredients

5 medium-sized russet potatoes
1 pound ham, diced
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the chopped onion, cooking until translucent.
4. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to form a roux.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce.
6. In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the potato slices.
7. Evenly distribute the diced ham over the potatoes.
8. Pour half of the sauce over the ham and potatoes.
9. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, and sauce.
10. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
11. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
13. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!