Ham and Scalloped Potatoes: A Comforting Classic Recipe

Ham and scalloped potatoes are a beloved comfort food pairing that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. This classic recipe combines tender, thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, creamy sauce with savory pieces of ham, all topped with a golden layer of melted cheese. It’s the kind of dish that evokes cozy memories and is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or simply when you need a hearty, comforting meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create this delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite.

Why This Recipe Works

This ham and scalloped potatoes dish works because it’s a masterclass in simple, satisfying flavors and textures. The potatoes soften beautifully in the creamy sauce, becoming tender and infused with flavor. The ham adds a salty, savory depth that complements the richness of the cream and cheese. It’s an old-fashioned recipe that relies on pantry staples and honest ingredients to create something truly delicious.

It’s the perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create a deeply comforting meal. This recipe is also wonderfully versatile, easily adapting to different types of cheese or even different types of hearty meat if ham isn’t readily available. It’s a reliable go-to for feeding a crowd or providing comforting leftovers.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly comforting pot of ham and scalloped potatoes.

The star ingredients here are the potatoes, which become wonderfully tender when baked, and the creamy sauce that binds everything together. Using a good quality cheddar cheese is key for that delicious flavor and melted topping. You can opt for whole milk instead of heavy cream for a slightly lighter result, though heavy cream provides unparalleled richness.

The ham choice can also make a difference; a fully cooked, flavorful ham will add more depth than a very mild one. Ensure your potatoes are sliced thinly and evenly so they cook at the same rate. This simple potato base, enhanced by the savory ham and creamy sauce, is what makes this a beloved comfort dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a perfect batch of ham and scalloped potatoes.

Prepare the Potatoes and Ham

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Aim for about 1/8-inch thickness.
3. Rinse the potato slices under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain them thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
4. Dice or cube your cooked ham into bite-sized pieces.

Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
5. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, a little at a time, until smooth.
6. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until it begins to thicken. Do not boil.
7. Stir in 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
8. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed.

Assemble and Bake

1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
2. Arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer in the bottom of the prepared dish.
3. Scatter half of the diced ham and half of the remaining chopped onion evenly over the potatoes.
4. Pour half of the creamy cheese sauce over this layer.
5. Repeat the layers: add the remaining potato slices, then the remaining ham and onion, and finally the rest of the cheese sauce.
6. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
7. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 45 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Rest and Serve

1. Let the ham and scalloped potatoes rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly.

Granny Tips for Perfect Results

Follow these time-tested tips for the best homemade ham and scalloped potatoes every time.

• Slice Potatoes Evenly: This is crucial for uniform cooking. A mandoline slicer is your best friend here, helping you achieve those thin, consistent slices. If slicing by hand, take your time and try to keep them uniform.
• Rinse the Starch: Don’t skip rinsing the potato slices! This removes excess starch, which can make your sauce gummy. Draining and drying thoroughly is also important to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
• Don’t Boil the Sauce: Simmer the sauce gently until thickened. Boiling can cause the cream to break or curdle, resulting in an undesirable texture. Stirring constantly helps prevent scorching and ensures a smooth consistency.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Ham can be salty, so taste your sauce before adding too much salt. Add pepper and any other spices gradually, tasting as you go, especially after the cheese has melted in.
• Resting is Key: Letting the dish rest after baking is essential. It allows the liquid to redistribute and thicken slightly, preventing a runny casserole and making it easier to serve neat portions.
• Generous Cheese Topping: While the cheese is mixed into the sauce, a final sprinkle on top creates that irresistible golden-brown crust. Use a good melting cheese for the best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common pitfalls to sidestep when making ham and scalloped potatoes.

• Mistake: Unevenly Sliced Potatoes. Potatoes cut too thick or too thin will not cook evenly, leading to some mushy pieces and some hard ones. Fix: Use a mandoline or a very sharp knife to ensure all slices are approximately 1/8-inch thick.
• Mistake: Gummy Sauce. Overworking or not rinsing the starch from the potatoes can lead to a thick, unappealing sauce. Fix: Rinse potato slices under cold water until the water runs clear and drain them thoroughly.
• Mistake: Scrambled Sauce. Boiling the cream mixture too vigorously can cause it to curdle. Fix: Heat the cream and milk mixture gently over medium heat, simmering only until it thickens, and stir frequently.
• Mistake: Under-seasoning or Over-salting. Ham varies in saltiness, and cheese adds saltiness too, making it easy to misjudge. Fix: Taste the sauce and the final dish before serving, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
• Mistake: Dry or Burnt Top. Baking uncovered for too long can dry out the edges or burn the cheese before the potatoes are tender. Fix: Cover the dish with foil for the initial baking period to steam the potatoes and protect the topping.

Variations and Substitutions

This classic recipe is wonderful as-is, but here are some ideas for variations and substitutions.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Ham and scalloped potatoes are a hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments.

Serve this comforting dish piping hot from the oven. It makes for a fantastic main course, especially when paired with a simple green salad or some steamed green beans for a balanced meal. For an extra bit of freshness, consider a Fresh Dill Pickle Salad Recipe, which offers a tangy contrast.

This dish is also a perfect side for holidays like Easter or Christmas, complementing roasted meats beautifully. If serving as a side, consider pairing it with a light Easy Italian Antipasto Salad or a simple roast chicken. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives can add a nice finishing touch.

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage ensures your delicious ham and scalloped potatoes remain enjoyable.

Nutritional Information

Approximate values will vary depending on ingredients, brands, and serving size.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the ham and scalloped potatoes up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. You may need to add a little extra liquid (milk or cream) and increase the initial covered baking time when you’re ready to cook it.

Can I substitute one main ingredient?

Certainly. If you don’t have ham, cooked chicken or turkey works well. For a dairy-free option, you can experiment with plant-based milk and shredded cheeses, though the texture and flavor may change. Using a different good melting cheese is always a delicious alternative.

How do I know when it is ready?

The ham and scalloped potatoes are ready when a fork easily pierces the potatoes, and the top is bubbly and golden brown. The sauce should be thickened, and the edges should appear well-cooked. The resting time after baking helps ensure the sauce is perfectly set.

How should I store it?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Make sure the dish has cooled completely before sealing to prevent excess condensation. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Is this recipe good for everyday use?

This recipe is a wonderful comfort food that can be enjoyed regularly as part of a balanced diet. While it’s rich and satisfying, it’s made with wholesome ingredients and can be a great meal for family dinners or special occasions, offering that classic homemade goodness.

Conclusion

Ham and scalloped potatoes are a timeless comfort food, beloved for their creamy texture and savory flavors. This easy recipe, using simple ingredients like potatoes, cream, cheese, and ham, delivers a satisfying and heartwarming meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whip up this delightful dish to bring a taste of cozy, old-fashioned goodness to your table. It’s the kind of classic homestyle recipe that everyone adores.

Plant-Based Ham and Scalloped Potatoes

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• Author: Helen
• Total Time: 105
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting classic featuring tender potatoes baked in a creamy sauce with savory plant-based ham and golden cheese. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 pounds potatoes
1 1/2 cups plant-based ham (diced)
1 medium onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
4 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Gouda)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
Sauté onion and garlic in butter until softened
Add flour and whisk to form a roux
Gradually stir in heavy cream and milk until smooth
Season with salt, pepper, and paprika
Layer potato slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish
Sprinkle plant-based ham over the potatoes
Pour sauce over the layers
Top with shredded cheese
Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes, until golden and bubbly

Notes

Use a plant-based ham substitute or smoked tofu for a meat-free option
Cheese can be omitted for a dairy-free version
Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days

• Prep Time: 30
• Cook Time: 75
• Category: Side Dishes
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 385
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 635mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 80mg