Ham and Scalloped Potatoes

Tools Needed, Number of People, and Cooking Time

Tools Needed:

  • 9×13-inch baking dish (or a lasagna-style pan)
  • Medium saucepan
  • Skillet
  • Whisk
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Spatula
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Aluminum foil
  • Oven

Number of People:

  • This recipe serves 6-8 people, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings.

Cooking Time:

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including baking and resting time)

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Ham and Scalloped Potatoes:

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Layers:

  • 1 tablespoon butter (for sautéing onions)
  • 3 medium onions, thinly sliced
  • 8 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 24 oz sliced ham (about 2 ham steaks, cubed)
  • 4 cups freshly grated mild cheddar cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preparing your oven and baking dish.

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature for ensuring that the potatoes cook thoroughly and the cheese melts perfectly.
  • Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. A lasagna-style pan works great for this recipe, giving you enough space for all the layers.

Once your pan is ready and the oven is preheating, you can start working on the sauce and layers.

2. Make the White Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of this dish, and it’s simple to make.

  • In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux. This helps thicken the sauce as it cooks.
  • Remove the pan from the heat and gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring that the mixture is smooth and free from lumps. Return the pan to the heat and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly until it thickens. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the sauce has thickened and is well-seasoned, remove it from the heat and set it aside. This sauce will bring richness to the potatoes and ham.

The white sauce is key to creating the creamy texture that makes Ham and Scalloped Potatoes so indulgent. Make sure the sauce is smooth before proceeding to the next step.

3. Sauté the Onions

For added flavor, we’ll sauté the onions to bring out their sweetness and create a golden-brown layer in the dish.

  • In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
  • Add the thinly sliced onions and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste. Once they’re cooked, set them aside.

The caramelized onions add depth to the flavor profile of the dish and pair wonderfully with the creamy potatoes and ham.

4. Layer the Dish

Now, it’s time to assemble your Ham and Scalloped Potatoes. Layering the ingredients properly ensures that each bite is filled with all the flavors of this dish.

  • Start by spreading ⅓ of the white sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will prevent the potatoes from sticking and provide a rich base for the layers.
  • Layer half of the sliced potatoes over the sauce, followed by half of the sautéed onions, then cubed ham and shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Pour another ⅓ of the sauce over the top of the first layer and season with a little more salt and pepper.
  • Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, ham, and sauce. Finish with a generous top layer of cheese for a gooey, golden finish.

This layering process ensures that each serving has a good balance of potatoes, cheese, ham, and creamy sauce.

5. Bake the Dish

Now that your dish is fully layered, it’s time to bake it to perfection.

  • Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven.
  • Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly. The foil helps cook the potatoes evenly while keeping them moist, and the final uncovered baking time ensures a crispy, golden cheese top.
  • To check for doneness, insert a fork or knife into the potatoes. If they slide in easily, the dish is ready.

This slow bake allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese to form a beautifully crispy top.

6. Rest Before Serving

Once the dish is done, let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes slicing easier, so you get perfectly portioned servings.

Tips for Success with Ham and Scalloped Potatoes

  • Use Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for this dish because they are starchy and absorb the creaminess of the sauce well. They also hold their shape during baking, giving you tender but firm slices.
  • Grate Your Own Cheese: Freshly grated cheddar cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese, creating a creamier and more flavorful result.
  • Thinly Slice the Potatoes: Thin slices of potato ensure they cook evenly and absorb the sauce’s flavor more effectively. Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife for consistent slices.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Layers: Be sure to spread the layers evenly, so every bite has the right balance of flavors. Too much ham or cheese can overpower the other elements.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

Ham and Scalloped Potatoes can be served as a hearty main dish or a filling side. Here are some ideas:

  • Serve with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • For a more indulgent dinner, serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
  • Freezing: You can also freeze Ham and Scalloped Potatoes for up to 2 months. After baking, allow it to cool completely before covering tightly with foil and freezing. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes.

Pro Tip: For best results, it’s always better to reheat in the oven rather than the microwave to maintain the crispy top and creamy layers.

FAQ: Common Questions About Ham and Scalloped Potatoes

1. Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While mild cheddar is traditional, you can use sharp cheddar for a more tangy flavor or even try a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a meltier texture.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. Then, simply bake it the next day, following the same instructions.

3. Can I substitute the ham with something else?

If you prefer a different protein, you can substitute chicken or bacon for the ham. Be sure to cook it before layering it into the dish.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick. You could also sprinkle some jalapeños or chopped green chilies in the layers.

5. What kind of potatoes should I use?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they are starchy and absorb the sauce without falling apart. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they don’t soften as well.

Conclusion

Ham and Scalloped Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food: rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s a perfect dish to feed a crowd or enjoy as a comforting meal on a cold night. With easy-to-follow steps and helpful tips, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. Try it today, and let the warm, cheesy goodness fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

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