The moment you take a whiff of Scalloped Potatoes and Ham, a wave of nostalgia washes over you. The creamy layers, tender potatoes, and savory ham create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. soft buttery potato rolls Picture this: the golden crust bubbling away in the oven, filling your kitchen with aromas so enticing they could lure in even the most dedicated takeout lovers.
This dish has a special place in my heart, reminding me of family gatherings where laughter and love filled the air. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone together for a delicious meal. parmesan garlic potato packets.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions
- The rich flavors will have your taste buds singing with joy!
- It looks stunning with its golden-brown top, sure to impress your guests
- This recipe is versatile enough for any season, pairing perfectly with everything from roast chicken to a simple salad
I remember the first time I served this dish to my friends; their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, and I thought they might just start singing like they were in a musical!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Potatoes: Opt for Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes; their creamy texture makes for the best layers.
- Cooked Ham: Use leftover ham for extra flavor; it adds a savory depth to every bite.
- Heavy Cream: Full-fat cream ensures that each layer is rich and satisfying.
- Cheddar Cheese: Choose sharp cheddar for a bold flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Onion: Finely chop onions; they add sweetness when cooked and enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Butter: A little melted butter will be drizzled between layers, adding richness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that tie all flavors together perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. perfect ham glaze recipe.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a good-sized baking dish and give it a light coating of nonstick spray so nothing gets stuck.
Slice Those Potatoes
Next comes the fun part: slice about 4-5 medium potatoes thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
Layer It Up
In your baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Sprinkle half of your chopped onion over them followed by half of the cooked ham. Drizzle some melted butter on top before seasoning generously with salt and pepper.
Add Cream and Cheese
Pour half of the heavy cream evenly over your layered ingredients. Then sprinkle half of your shredded cheddar cheese on top; it’s cheese heaven! Repeat these layers one more time until all ingredients are used.
Bake Until Golden
Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil (shiny side down) and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, let your Scalloped Potatoes and Ham rest for about 10-15 minutes before digging in. crispy air fryer potato skins This allows the layers to set beautifully.
And there you have it—a delightful dish that’s not just food but an experience that warms hearts and fills stomachs! Enjoy every cheesy bite with family or friends, because let’s be honest: sharing is caring (especially when cheese is involved).
You Must Know
- Scalloped potatoes and ham are not just a dish; they evoke nostalgia
- The creamy texture and savory ham create a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
- Remember, the right cheese can elevate this comfort food to gourmet status
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly cooked scalloped potatoes and ham, layer ingredients thoughtfully. Start with a base of potatoes, sprinkle in ham, then repeat layers while alternating cream and cheese. For more inspiration, check out this Hamburger Potato Casserole recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap traditional ingredients! Use sweet potatoes instead of regular ones or experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère for an extra kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to preserve that creamy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best scalloped potatoes and ham, slice your potatoes evenly for consistent cooking
- Always let your dish rest before serving; it enhances flavor absorption
- Don’t skimp on seasoning; a pinch of nutmeg can elevate your dish beautifully!
The first time I made scalloped potatoes and ham for my friends, they couldn’t stop raving about it! Their smiles while devouring every bite made all the kitchen chaos worth it.
FAQ
Can I use leftover ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover ham adds great flavor and reduces waste.
How do I prevent my potatoes from turning brown?
Soaking sliced potatoes in cold water prevents oxidation and browning before cooking.
What’s the best cheese for scalloped potatoes?
A combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyère gives a deliciously creamy texture with depth of flavor.
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is a comforting, creamy dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to your dining table. Layers of tender potatoes, savory ham, and rich cheese create an irresistible symphony of flavors. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that is both simple to prepare and visually stunning.
Ingredients
- 4–5 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes (about 2 lbs), thinly sliced
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline or sharp knife.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Add half of the onions and ham on top. Drizzle with melted butter and season with salt and pepper.
- Pour half of the heavy cream over the layers followed by half of the cheddar cheese. Repeat layering with remaining ingredients.
- Cover with aluminum foil (shiny side down) and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing different cheeses such as Gruyère. You can substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for a unique twist. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently in the oven.