Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Casserole – Creamy & Easy Dinner

If there’s one dish that feels like a warm, cozy hug on a chilly evening, it’s Scalloped Potatoes and Ham. This classic comfort food recipe is all about tender potato slices layered with savory ham, all smothered in a rich, creamy white sauce that tastes like pure heaven. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to kick back, relax, and savor every single bite. Whether you’re making it as a hearty main course or a comforting side, it’s guaranteed to satisfy.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. The ingredients are basic pantry staples, the process is straightforward, and the results? Absolutely amazing. It’s also the perfect way to use up any leftover ham from holiday dinners or special occasions. Plus, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes, adding cheese for a decadent twist or swapping out the ham for another protein if you prefer.

I first fell in love with this dish during a family dinner where my grandmother served it as a side to her famous roasted chicken. But honestly, I ended up eating more of the potatoes than anything else. The creamy sauce soaked into the tender potatoes, the ham added just the right amount of salty goodness, and the golden, buttery topping was pure magic. From that moment on, I knew this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to adore about this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham recipe. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply craving something comforting and delicious, this dish is a winner for so many reasons.

1. Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to pull off this dish. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are simple and easy to find. You’ll have dinner in the oven before you know it.
2. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t get enough of the creamy, cheesy, ham-packed goodness. It’s perfect for picky eaters and satisfying enough to be a complete meal on its own.
3. Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of creamy white sauce, tender potatoes, and savory ham is a match made in comfort food heaven. Each bite is luscious and satisfying.
4. Versatile and Customizable: While the classic version is delicious, you can easily switch things up by adding cheese, extra herbs, or even some veggies like broccoli or peas.
5. Great for Using Leftovers: If you’ve got leftover ham hanging around from a holiday feast, this recipe is the perfect way to put it to good use.
6. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a Sunday dinner, or a holiday meal, this dish fits right in and leaves everyone feeling full and happy.

Health Benefits

Now, let’s be honest. Scalloped Potatoes and Ham isn’t exactly a salad. But it does offer some surprising health benefits when you break down the ingredients.

1. Potatoes – The Nutritious Staple
   Potatoes often get a bad rap, but they’re actually a great source of essential vitamins and minerals. They’re packed with potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, and they contain vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports your immune system. Plus, potatoes are rich in dietary fiber when you leave the skins on, which can aid digestion and promote a healthy gut.
2. Ham – Protein Powerhouse
   Ham is a good source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall health. It also provides important minerals like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, particularly vitamin B12, which supports nerve function and energy production. If you’re concerned about sodium content, you can opt for reduced-sodium ham to keep things a bit lighter.
3. Milk – Creamy Goodness with Benefits
   Using 2% milk in the creamy sauce adds not only rich flavor but also essential nutrients. Milk is an excellent source of calcium, which is crucial for bone health. It also provides protein, vitamin D, and other nutrients that contribute to overall wellness.
4. Herbs & Spices – Flavor and Antioxidants
   The thyme and parsley used in this recipe don’t just add flavor; they also provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, they make the dish smell absolutely amazing while it’s baking.
5. Balanced Meal Potential
   While this recipe is hearty and rich, pairing it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can make it a balanced meal that offers a variety of nutrients.

Sure, it’s a comfort food dish, but knowing that it’s providing your body with some valuable nutrients while delivering incredible flavor is a win-win.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

To help you plan your kitchen adventure, here’s a quick breakdown of what you need to know before you get started.

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 80–95 minutes (includes both covered and uncovered baking)
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
Servings: 8
Calories per Serving: Approximately 380 calories
Key Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 7g

These nutritional values are based on using standard ingredients as listed. If you make changes like using reduced-fat milk or skipping the butter, the nutritional profile will change.

Ingredients List

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure you have everything you need for this comforting Scalloped Potatoes and Ham dish.

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 6 tablespoons butter, divided (4 tablespoons for the sauce, 2 tablespoons for topping)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening the sauce)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes (for a hint of freshness)
• 1 teaspoon salt (to enhance overall flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (for earthy, aromatic flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for a subtle kick)
• 3 cups 2% milk (creamy base for the sauce)

For the Casserole:

• 6 cups thinly sliced peeled potatoes (about 2 pounds; Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
• 1-1/2 cups chopped fully cooked ham (perfect for using leftovers)
• 1 small onion, grated (adds depth and a touch of sweetness)

These ingredients are all you need for the basic version. If you’re planning to make a cheesy variation or add breadcrumbs, we’ll cover that later. Now, let’s get cooking.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a bubbling, golden casserole ready to enjoy.

Make the Sauce

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
3. Add the flour, parsley flakes, salt, thyme, and pepper. Stir constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly golden, about 1–2 minutes.
4. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Potato and Ham Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, chopped ham, and grated onion.
2. Grease a 2-1/2 quart baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
3. Spread half of the potato and ham mixture evenly in the prepared dish.

Layer and Add Sauce

1. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the potato and ham mixture, making sure it covers everything well.
2. Add the remaining potato and ham mixture on top.
3. Pour the rest of the sauce evenly over the potatoes.

Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 65–75 minutes until the potatoes are almost tender.
3. Remove the foil, dot the top with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes. This step allows the top to turn golden and slightly crisp.
4. Check the potatoes with a fork; they should be fully tender when done.

Let It Rest and Serve

1. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
2. This rest period helps the creamy sauce thicken up a bit more, making it easier to serve.

And that’s it! You’ve just made a mouthwatering, comforting Scalloped Potatoes and Ham casserole. Now, let’s talk about how to make this dish shine when serving.

How to Serve

Serving this dish is as easy as scooping generous portions onto plates and digging in. But if you want to elevate the experience a little, here are some ideas:

• Serve it as a main dish with a side of steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette.
• Pair it with soft dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• As a side dish, it complements roasted chicken, turkey, or even grilled fish beautifully.
• Top each serving with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness.

This casserole is rich and hearty, so it pairs best with lighter, fresh sides that add balance to the plate.

Pairing Suggestions

Choosing the right sides and drinks to complement your Scalloped Potatoes and Ham can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some pairing ideas:

• Salads: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad works beautifully.
• Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or sautéed green beans add a nice, healthy touch.
• Bread: Warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls make great accompaniments.
• Beverages: Since we’re keeping things halal-friendly, a sparkling apple cider or a refreshing cucumber mint lemonade makes a delightful pairing.

The creamy, savory nature of this dish pairs well with fresh, crisp, and slightly acidic sides that cut through the richness.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about this dish is that it stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers later.

Storage:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Freezing:

• To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole as directed, but stop before baking.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding 15–20 minutes of additional baking time if needed.

Reheating:

• If reheating a frozen, baked casserole, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through (about 30–40 minutes).

Proper storage and reheating make this dish just as delicious the second time around.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some pitfalls to avoid when making Scalloped Potatoes and Ham:

1. Using Potatoes That Are Too Thick: Thick slices take longer to cook. Aim for 1/8-inch slices for best results.
2. Skipping the Butter Topping: Those final tablespoons of butter add golden richness. Don’t skip them.
3. Not Covering While Baking: Keeping the dish covered for most of the baking time ensures the potatoes become tender.
4. Undercooking the Sauce: Make sure your sauce thickens before pouring it over the potatoes. This prevents a runny casserole.

Pro Tips

To make sure your Scalloped Potatoes and Ham turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

1. Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this dish. They soften beautifully and absorb the creamy sauce well.
2. Slice Potatoes Evenly: For even cooking, make sure your potato slices are about 1/8-inch thick. A mandoline slicer makes this task quick and precise.
3. Pre-Cook the Sauce Properly: Allow the sauce to thicken to a creamy consistency before layering it over the potatoes. This prevents a watery casserole.
4. Cover First, Uncover Later: Baking covered allows the potatoes to become tender. Uncovering them towards the end creates that golden, slightly crisp topping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions people have about making Scalloped Potatoes and Ham:

Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Yes! To make a cheesy version, add 1 to 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan to the sauce after it has thickened. You can also sprinkle some cheese on top before baking for a golden, bubbly finish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and it will work just as well.

What if I don’t have cooked ham?
You can use cooked chicken, turkey, or even smoked sausage as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, try adding sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli.

How do I avoid runny scalloped potatoes?
Make sure your sauce is thick before pouring it over the potatoes, and use starchy potatoes. Also, let the dish rest after baking to allow the sauce to set.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is a true classic that delivers everything you want in a comforting, satisfying dish. The creamy sauce, tender potatoes, and savory ham come together in the most delightful way, making each bite pure comfort food bliss. It’s easy to prepare, uses basic ingredients, and offers plenty of options for customization. Whether you’re making it as a cozy weeknight dinner or a holiday side dish, it’s bound to be a hit.

Now that you’ve got all the tips, tricks, and variations at your fingertips, it’s time to make this dish your own. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how delicious it is. If you do, be sure to leave a comment below and share your experience. I’d love to hear about your creative twists, tips, or how your family reacted to this comforting casserole.

And hey, if you snap a photo of your finished dish, don’t forget to share it on social media and tag me! There’s nothing better than seeing your beautiful creations. Happy cooking!

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