Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is a rich and creamy dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any special occasion. Layers of tender potatoes, savory ham, and a luscious creamy sauce create a hearty meal that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. With a touch of thyme and optional sharp cheddar cheese, this dish is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 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 to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced onion and butter over medium-low heat until the onion is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the thyme and flour to the skillet, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook the flour.
4. Turn the heat to low and gradually add the milk, a little at a time, whisking between each addition. The mixture will thicken but will smooth out as you continue adding and whisking. Stir in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for 1 minute.
5. Layer 1/3 of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Top with 1/3 of the diced ham and 1/3 of the sauce. Repeat these layers two more times, ending with the sauce on top.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50 minutes. Afterward, uncover the dish and bake for an additional 25-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the dish during the last 15 minutes of baking.
7. Allow the casserole to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

• Cheese: For extra creaminess and flavor, add more types of cheese, such as Gruyère or mozzarella, in addition to or instead of sharp cheddar.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Add vegetables like peas or steamed broccoli to make the dish even heartier.
• Spices: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary, parsley, or garlic powder to change the flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of this dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much during storage, you can add a splash of milk when reheating.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make this dish in advance? Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking from the fridge.
2. Can I use other types of potatoes? Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes or red potatoes can be used as a substitute for white potatoes.
3. Can I add more vegetables? Yes, vegetables like carrots or peas can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. Is this recipe suitable for a freezer meal? Yes, you can assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. Just bake it from frozen for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, covered with foil.
5. Can I make this recipe without the ham? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham or substituting it with another protein such as cooked chicken or turkey.
6. Can I use pre-sliced potatoes? Yes, pre-sliced or frozen potatoes can be used to save time.
7. Is this recipe spicy? No, this recipe is not spicy. However, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for some heat if desired.
8. Can I use heavy cream instead of milk? Yes, using heavy cream will result in an even richer and creamier sauce.
9. How do I know when the potatoes are tender? The potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork when the casserole is done.
10. Can I make this dish without cheese? Yes, this dish can be made without cheese for a lighter version, or you can skip the cheese topping for a more traditional approach.

Conclusion

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is a classic, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy, flavorful sauce, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or as a side to a holiday meal, this recipe is simple to make and absolutely delicious. Enjoy the warmth and richness of this classic comfort food!

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