If you’ve been searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole to brighten your dinner table, then this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, cheesy layers of thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes meet perfectly seasoned sauce and tender diced ham to create a dish that’s hearty without being heavy. It’s the kind of recipe that effortlessly combines simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful masterpiece — perfect for weeknights or special occasions when you want to wow your friends and family with a classic homemade meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe truly shine, you just need a handful of simple ingredients that each bring something special to the table — from the creamy texture of whole milk to the sharp tang of Dijon mustard. Every item is essential in building layers of flavor, color, and that irresistibly cheesy goodness.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melts smoothly to create a rich roux, essential for thickening your sauce.
- ½ onion (finely chopped): Adds a subtle savory sweetness that balances the creaminess.
- â…“ cup all-purpose flour: Gives body to the sauce, making it perfectly velvety.
- 2½ cups whole milk: Brings creamy richness and smooth texture to the base sauce.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Adds depth and savory undertones without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Provides gentle warmth and a little kick.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Infuses a subtle tanginess that cuts through the richness beautifully.
- 3½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (sliced thin): Creamy, buttery potatoes that hold their shape and soak up the sauce delightfully.
- 3 cups diced ham: Tender, salty pieces add protein and savory bursts in every bite.
- 1½ cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a golden, bubbly topping that brings melty, gooey goodness.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for topping): Gives a fresh, vibrant pop of color and flavor.
How to Make Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base Sauce
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F, then melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. This simple start sets the stage for your luscious sauce. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and cook them gently until they soften and become translucent, releasing their sweet aroma that hints at the cozy meal ahead.
Step 2: Build the Roux
Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for about a minute. This step cooks out the raw flour taste while forming the base that thickens your sauce — so don’t rush it! This little mixture, a roux, is the secret behind the creamy, velvety texture of your scalloped potatoes and ham recipe.
Step 3: Whisk in the Liquids and Seasonings
Slowly pour the whole milk and chicken broth into your roux while whisking constantly to keep things smooth and lump-free. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. Once thickened, whisk in kosher salt, ground black pepper, and Dijon mustard. These elements add the perfect seasoning balance and give your dish that signature tangy-smooth flavor.
Step 4: Layer Your Ingredients
Grab a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and lay down about one-third of your thin potato slices evenly on the bottom. Then sprinkle a cup of diced ham over the potatoes, and ladle a third of your savory sauce across. Repeat this layering process twice more — potatoes, ham, sauce — making sure each layer is well covered and evenly distributed for consistent flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and bake it for 45 minutes. This initial baking softens the potatoes perfectly while letting the sauce bubble gently around the ham. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly, irresistible layer.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, finish your Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe by sprinkling with freshly chopped parsley. This simple touch adds a fresh pop of color and a subtle herbal brightness that beautifully complements the rich, melty casserole.
How to Serve Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley is classic, but you can also experiment with a light dusting of smoked paprika or finely sliced green onions for a bit of extra color and a subtle pop of flavor. These garnishes make your presentation inviting and lend a fresh contrast to the creamy layers.
Side Dishes
This dish stands beautifully on its own as a hearty main, but pairing it with fresh green vegetables like steamed asparagus, roasted green beans, or a bright, crisp salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness and creates a well-rounded meal. The balance of creamy potatoes and fresh greens is hard to beat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a lovely presentation at dinner parties, scoop the scalloped potatoes and ham into individual ramekins before baking. This personalized touch makes the dish feel extra special and festive. You can also add a crunchy breadcrumb topping in the last few minutes of baking for an unexpected texture twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it just as delicious — if not better — the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking or after it has cooled if you want to prepare in advance. Wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap for best results, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven until gently bubbling and heated through. If you want to restore some crispiness on top, remove any covering foil toward the end so the cheese can get melty again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese works beautifully, you can experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a mix of cheeses for different creamy and flavor profiles. Just make sure the cheese melts well.
Is it necessary to use Yukon Gold potatoes?
Yukon Golds are preferred for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, but you can substitute with other waxy potatoes like red potatoes or even Russets. Just slice them thinly to ensure even cooking.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, making the sauce ahead can save time. Keep it warm and whisk occasionally to maintain smoothness before layering it in your casserole. Just avoid letting it get too thick or cool, as it may be harder to spread later.
How do I know when the potatoes are done baking?
After the covered baking time, test the potatoes by piercing them with a fork; they should be tender and slide off the fork easily. If needed, bake a few minutes longer covered before adding cheese for the final bake.
Can I add vegetables to this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli florets between the layers to add nutrition and extra flavor dimension. Just keep the overall moisture balance in mind.
Final Thoughts
This Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. The creamy sauce, tender potatoes, and savory ham combined with melty cheese create a comforting dish that’s hard to resist and easy to love. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite go-to recipes whenever you want a delicious, satisfying meal that brings everyone together.
Print
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Scalloped Potatoes and Ham recipe offers tender Yukon Gold potatoes layered with savory diced ham and a creamy cheese sauce made from butter, onion, milk, and Dijon mustard. Baked to golden perfection with melted cheddar cheese on top, this comforting casserole is perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, delivering rich flavors and a satisfying texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Cheese Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (½ stick)
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- â…“ cup all-purpose flour
- 2½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Main Ingredients
- 3½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced thin
- 3 cups diced ham
- 1½ cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Melt Butter: Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter to prepare for the sauce base.
- Sauté Onion: Add the finely chopped onion to the melted butter and cook for a few minutes until softened and translucent to develop flavor.
- Add Flour: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about one minute to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Incorporate Liquids: Slowly pour in the whole milk and low-sodium chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps and create a smooth sauce.
- Simmer and Season Sauce: Let the mixture simmer until it thickens slightly. Then whisk in the kosher salt, ground black pepper, and Dijon mustard to enhance the depth of flavor.
- First Layer of Potatoes: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and layer one-third of the thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes evenly on the bottom.
- First Layer of Ham and Sauce: Spread 1 cup of diced ham over the potatoes, then pour one-third of the prepared sauce evenly over the top.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process twice more with remaining potatoes, ham, and sauce, finishing with the sauce on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
- Add Cheese Topping: Remove the foil and sprinkle the freshly shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving warm.
Notes
- For best results, slice the potatoes very thin to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang to the sauce; adjust amount to taste.
- You can substitute Yukon Gold potatoes with Russet potatoes if desired, but slicing thickness should be consistent.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole and keep covered in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
