Dinner

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Recipe Image 3

This is the kind of recipe that makes you look like you’ve been secretly attending culinary school, when really you just followed some very good directions and managed not to burn anything.

Picture layers of tender Yukon Gold potatoes swimming in a creamy, garlicky sauce, studded with chunks of savory ham and blanketed with melted sharp cheddar that gets all golden and bubbly on top.

The aroma alone will have your family hovering around the kitchen like moths to a flame, asking “Is it ready yet?” approximately every thirty seconds.

What makes this recipe absolutely brilliant is how it transforms simple ingredients into something that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant, but requires zero fancy techniques or equipment.

The secret lies in those paper-thin potato slices that cook to creamy perfection, absorbing all that rich, savory goodness while the ham adds little pockets of smoky flavor throughout.

This is comfort food at its finest – the kind of dish that makes people lean back in their chairs with satisfied sighs and immediately ask for the recipe.

Ingredients

For the aromatic base

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, 1/4-inch diced
6 garlic cloves, minced (about 2 tablespoons)

For the creamy sauce

1 cup whole milk
¾ cup low sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
½ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the layers

3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (about 6 to 8 medium potatoes)
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups 1/4 to 1/2-inch diced cooked ham
4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese

For serving

Chopped fresh chives, thyme, or parsley (optional)

Instructions

Preparation

1 Place a rack in the center of your oven and preheat to 375°F (190°C). Coat a 9×13 inch casserole dish with nonstick spray and set aside. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
2 In a medium pot or cast iron skillet with high sides, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often with a silicone spatula, until translucent. The key here is patience – adjust the heat as needed so the onion softens but does not brown, which would add bitter notes to your creamy sauce.
3 Stir in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 1 minute more. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen fills with that irresistible aroma of sautéed garlic.

Making the sauce

4 Turn off the heat completely. Stir in the milk, broth, 1 teaspoon of the salt, and the black pepper using a whisk to ensure everything combines smoothly. Set this mixture aside – it will be the creamy foundation that transforms your potatoes into pure comfort food magic.

Preparing the potatoes

5 Peel the potatoes using a sharp knife or vegetable peeler. With a mandoline slicer (this truly is the easiest method for uniform slices!) or a sharp chef’s knife, carefully cut the potatoes into very thin slices (about 1/8-inch thick). Don’t cut them any thicker or they may not cook through properly, leaving you with crunchy potato disappointment.
6 Place the potato slices in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with the flour and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. With clean hands, toss everything together until each slice is lightly coated. The flour will help thicken the sauce as it bakes.

Assembly

7 Spread one-third of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the bottom of your prepared dish. Spoon 1 cup of the milk-broth mixture over the top, ensuring it reaches the edges. Sprinkle with 2/3 cup of the diced ham and one-third of the shredded cheddar cheese.
8 Repeat the layering process twice more, so you have 3 complete layers each of potato, milk-broth mixture, ham, and cheddar cheese. You’ll end with a beautiful layer of melted cheddar on top.

Baking

9 Lightly mist a large piece of aluminum foil with nonstick spray. Cover the dish with the foil, placing it spray-side down to prevent sticking, and bake for 35 minutes. This covered baking time allows the potatoes to steam and become tender.
10 Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes uncovered. The top should be starting to turn golden and the liquid should be bubbling around the edges.

Finishing touches

11 Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle with the finely grated Parmesan cheese. Turn your oven to broil and return the pan to the oven. Broil until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly, about 1 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it during this step – broilers work fast and you don’t want to go from golden perfection to charcoal disaster!
12 Sprinkle with fresh herbs if using. Allow the dish to stand at room temperature for 20 to 25 minutes to allow the milk mixture to set and thicken properly. This resting time is crucial – it’s what transforms your casserole from soupy to perfectly creamy. Serve hot with additional salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the saltiness will vary based on your ham and broth choices.

Recommended Equipment and Kitchen Tools

Recommended Tools (for best results)

Mandoline slicer – This is genuinely a game-changer for achieving those perfectly uniform, paper-thin potato slices that cook evenly throughout. The consistent thickness ensures no crunchy surprises in your finished dish.
9×13 inch casserole dish – A quality ceramic or glass baking dish distributes heat evenly and looks beautiful when serving. Avoid metal pans which can react with the dairy and create off-flavors.
Large mixing bowls – You’ll need space to toss those potato slices with flour and salt without making a mess all over your counter.
Silicone spatula – Perfect for stirring the onions without scratching your cookware, and essential for scraping every bit of that precious creamy sauce.

Helpful Upgrades

Cast iron skillet with high sides – Excellent heat retention for building your sauce base, and the high sides prevent splattering when you add the liquids.
Kitchen scale – For the most accurate measurements, especially when portioning your potato layers evenly.
Microplane grater – Creates the finest Parmesan cheese texture that melts beautifully under the broiler.

Nice-to-Have Options

Aluminum foil – Heavy-duty foil works best for covering during the initial baking phase and won’t tear when you’re handling it.
Instant-read thermometer – While not essential, checking that your potatoes reach 200°F (93°C) internally ensures they’re perfectly tender throughout.

Recipe Variations and Dietary Modifications

Gluten-Free Adaptation

Replace the 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons cornstarch or 3 tablespoons gluten-free flour blend
Cornstarch will create a slightly glossier sauce, while gluten-free flour maintains the traditional texture
No adjustments needed for baking time or temperature
Always check that your ham and broth are certified gluten-free

Dairy-Free Modifications

Substitute 1 cup unsweetened oat milk or full-fat coconut milk for the whole milk
Replace butter with 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegan butter
Use 1 cup nutritional yeast mixed with 2 tablespoons cashew cream instead of the cheddar cheese
Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative

Vegetarian Version

Omit the ham entirely and add 2 cups sautéed mushrooms (cremini or shiitake work beautifully)
Include 1 cup caramelized onions for extra depth of flavor
Add 1 teaspoon smoked paprika to replicate some of the smoky notes from the ham
Consider adding 1 cup steamed broccoli florets between layers

Low-Carb Modifications

Replace potatoes with 3 pounds thinly sliced turnips or cauliflower
Reduce the flour to 1 tablespoon or eliminate entirely
Increase the cheese content to 6 ounces for extra richness
Expect a slightly different texture but equally satisfying results

Flavor Variations

Herb-crusted version: Add 2 tablespoons fresh thyme and 1 tablespoon rosemary to the layers
Spicy kick: Include 1 diced jalapeño with the onions and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Gourmet upgrade: Use Gruyère cheese instead of cheddar and add 2 tablespoons white wine to the sauce

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Key Nutritional Highlights

This hearty casserole provides approximately 285 calories per serving when divided into 12 portions. Each serving delivers a balanced combination of 18 grams carbohydrates, 12 grams protein, and 16 grams fat. The Yukon Gold potatoes contribute significant potassium (620mg per serving), essential for heart health and muscle function. The dish also provides calcium from the dairy ingredients and B-vitamins from the ham, making it a nutritionally complete comfort food option.

Health Benefits of Main Ingredients

Yukon Gold potatoes are nutritional powerhouses, providing vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Their thin skins (when left on) add extra nutrients and antioxidants. The garlic and onions offer sulfur compounds with anti-inflammatory properties and immune system support. Sharp cheddar cheese provides high-quality protein and calcium for bone health, while the whole milk adds vitamin D and riboflavin. Even the ham contributes iron and complete proteins with all essential amino acids.

Dietary Considerations

This recipe contains gluten (from flour), dairy (milk and cheese), and pork (ham). The sodium content is moderate at approximately 580mg per serving, though this varies significantly based on your ham and broth choices. The dish fits well into Mediterranean and traditional American dietary patterns. For optimal nutrition, pair with a green salad or steamed vegetables to increase fiber and micronutrient content.

Smart Swaps and Ingredient Substitutions

Common Substitutions:

Yukon Gold potatoes → Russet potatoes (slice slightly thinner as they’re starchier) or red potatoes (leave skins on for extra texture)
Whole milk → Half-and-half for extra richness, or 2% milk plus 2 tablespoons heavy cream for similar results
Sharp cheddar → Gruyère for nuttier flavor, Monterey Jack for milder taste, or smoked cheddar for extra depth
Cooked ham → Leftover turkey, cooked bacon (use less due to higher fat content), or prosciutto (add during last 15 minutes)

Budget-Friendly Swaps:

Fresh garlic → 1 tablespoon garlic powder (add with the flour)
Sharp cheddar → Mild cheddar or American cheese (more affordable, still delicious)
Low-sodium broth → Homemade stock or bouillon cubes (adjust salt accordingly)
Unsalted butter → Regular butter (reduce added salt by half)

Pantry Emergency Substitutions:

Fresh onion → 2 tablespoons onion powder mixed into the sauce
Whole milk → Evaporated milk diluted with equal parts water
All-purpose flour → Instant mashed potato flakes (2 tablespoons) for thickening
Fresh herbs → 1 teaspoon dried herbs (add during cooking, not as garnish)

Pro Tips for Substitutions:

When using different potato varieties, adjust slicing thickness accordingly – waxy potatoes can be slightly thicker, starchy ones should be thinner
Cheese substitutions work best when you maintain similar melting properties – avoid pre-shredded cheese when possible as it contains anti-caking agents
Milk alternatives with higher fat content will create richer results, while lower-fat options may need additional thickening

Make It Diabetes-Friendly

Carb Reduction Strategies:

Replace half the potatoes with thinly sliced turnips or cauliflower to reduce carbs by approximately 35%
Use 2 tablespoons almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for thickening
This modification reduces the carb content from 28g to approximately 18g per serving
The cooking time remains the same, but check for tenderness as root vegetables cook differently

Portion Control Modifications:

Divide into 16 smaller servings instead of 12 for better blood sugar management
Each smaller portion contains approximately 14g carbohydrates
Pair with 2 cups non-starchy vegetables like steamed broccoli or green beans
Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to vegetables for healthy fats that slow carb absorption

Smart Timing Tips:

Serve as a side dish rather than main course, limiting portion to 1/2 cup
Include 4 oz lean protein (grilled chicken or fish) to balance the meal
Eat earlier in the day when insulin sensitivity is typically higher
Consider having a small salad first to increase fiber and slow digestion

Ingredient Swaps for Lower Impact:

Use unsweetened almond milk instead of whole milk to reduce carbs by 6g per serving
Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini between layers
Choose lower-sodium ham to reduce overall sodium content

Total Carb Reduction: These modifications can reduce carbohydrates from 28g to 12-15g per serving while maintaining the comforting, satisfying nature of this classic dish.

Perfect Pairing Suggestions

Beverage Pairings

A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio cuts beautifully through the rich, creamy texture while complementing the ham’s smoky notes. For beer lovers, a light lager or wheat beer provides refreshing contrast without overwhelming the delicate potato flavors. Non-alcoholic options include sparkling apple cider for fall gatherings or lemon-infused sparkling water to cleanse the palate between bites. Hot beverages like herbal tea or light roast coffee work surprisingly well for brunch presentations.

Side Dish Recommendations

This rich casserole begs for bright, acidic accompaniments to balance its creamy richness. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides peppery contrast and helps cut through the cheese. Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze add textural variety and seasonal appeal. Steamed green beans with almonds contribute crunch and freshness, while honey-glazed carrots bring natural sweetness that complements the savory ham perfectly.

Complete Meal Ideas

For Sunday dinner, start with a light soup like butternut squash or tomato basil, serve the scalloped potatoes alongside roasted chicken or glazed pork tenderloin, and finish with apple crisp for dessert. Holiday entertaining calls for cranberry sauce, dinner rolls, and roasted vegetables to create a feast-worthy spread. Casual family dinners pair beautifully with grilled vegetables and cornbread.

Occasion Suggestions

This dish shines at potluck dinners, holiday gatherings, and comfort food Sunday meals. It’s perfect for meal prep situations where you need something satisfying that reheats well. Easter and Christmas celebrations benefit from its crowd-pleasing nature, while cozy winter dinners showcase its warming, stick-to-your-ribs qualities.

Pro Tips and Troubleshooting

Professional Techniques

The key to perfect scalloped potatoes lies in achieving uniform potato slices – invest in a mandoline slicer or take extra time with your knife work. Salt the potato layers as you build them; this seasons throughout and helps draw out excess moisture. Don’t skip the resting period after baking – those 20-25 minutes allow the starches to set and create the perfect creamy-but-not-soupy consistency that separates amateur from professional results.

Common Mistakes and Solutions

Watery results usually stem from skipping the flour coating or not allowing proper resting time. Crunchy potatoes indicate slices were too thick or oven temperature was too high. Curdled sauce happens when dairy gets too hot too fast – always remove from heat before adding milk and broth. Burnt top with undercooked interior means your oven rack was too high; center position is crucial for even cooking.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days in the original baking dish, covered tightly. Reheat individual portions in the microwave at 50% power to prevent overcooking the edges. For best texture, reheat larger portions in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, covered with foil. Freezing works for up to 3 months – thaw completely before reheating and expect slightly softer texture.

Make-Ahead Strategies

Assemble completely up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to the initial covered baking time when cooking from cold. Pre-slice potatoes up to 4 hours ahead and store in cold water with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning – drain and pat dry before using.

Scaling Tips

Double the recipe easily using two 9×13 pans or one large roasting pan. Half portions work well in an 8×8 square pan with slightly reduced cooking time. For crowds, consider multiple smaller pans rather than one enormous dish for more even cooking and easier serving.

This recipe proves that the best comfort foods don’t need complicated techniques or exotic ingredients – just quality basics treated with care and attention. Every forkful delivers that perfect combination of creamy potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheese that makes this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.