Creamy Scalloped Potatoes with Ham

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, creamy dish of scalloped potatoes. When you add crispy ham pieces to the mix, you’re not just making a meal—you’re creating an experience. Creamy scalloped potatoes with ham is a classic dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for hearty comfort food. This dish combines thinly sliced potatoes and succulent ham, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a great way to use leftover ham in a creative and tasty way.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find everything you need to create this delectable dish from scratch. From a detailed list of ingredients to step-by-step instructions, nutrition facts, serving suggestions, additional tips, and answers to common questions, this article will equip you with all the knowledge you need to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.

Ingredients

To make creamy scalloped potatoes with ham, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Potatoes: 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• Ham: 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• Butter: 3 tablespoons
• Flour: 3 tablespoons
• Milk: 2 cups (whole milk or heavy cream for extra richness)
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon
• Paprika: ½ teaspoon (optional)
• Parsley: Fresh, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create this delicious dish:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes. Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to slice them into 1/8-inch thick rounds. Set aside.
3. Cook the Onion: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce:
   • Sprinkle the flour over the onions, stirring constantly for about 1 minute.
   • Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Continue to stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Layer the Dish:
   • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
   • Arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the dish.
   • Sprinkle half of the diced ham over the potatoes.
   • Pour half of the cheese sauce over the layer of potatoes and ham.
   • Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, and cheese sauce.
6. Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is essential for maintaining a balanced diet. Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutrition facts per serving (based on eight servings):

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 65mg

These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How to Serve

This dish is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, catering to different occasions and personal preferences. Below are several detailed suggestions on how to serve this dish effectively:

Main Course

When serving this dish as a main course, consider complementing it with a vibrant side salad or steamed vegetables.

• Salad Pairing: A fresh garden salad with a mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can enhance the meal by adding a refreshing contrast. For a more substantial salad, consider a quinoa or farro salad, incorporating ingredients like roasted vegetables, nuts, and feta cheese for added texture and flavor.
• Vegetable Options: Steamed vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans can provide a nutritious and colorful addition to the plate. Drizzle them with a bit of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt for a simple yet delicious enhancement. Alternatively, roasted vegetables can add depth and sweetness to the meal, especially when seasoned with herbs and spices.

Side Dish

When serving this dish as a side, it can pair beautifully with a variety of proteins, making it a versatile choice for family dinners or gatherings.

• Meat Pairings: This dish complements roast chicken, beef, or pork exceptionally well. For instance, a succulent herb-roasted chicken will pair nicely, as the flavors can meld beautifully, creating a harmonious dining experience. For beef lovers, consider a grilled steak or slow-cooked pot roast; the richness of the meat will balance the dish perfectly. If you’re serving pork, a maple-glazed roast or tender pulled pork can add a delightful sweetness that contrasts nicely with the dish’s savory qualities.
• Vegetarian Options: If you’re looking to create a vegetarian meal, consider pairing the dish with a hearty grain-based entrée, such as stuffed peppers or a vegetable lasagna. These options can provide a fulfilling and balanced meal while allowing the dish to shine as a robust side.

Potluck Favorite

This dish is an excellent choice for potlucks or family gatherings, where it can serve as a crowd-pleaser that impresses a variety of palates.

• Presentation: When bringing it to a potluck, consider how you present the dish. Use a large, attractive serving platter or bowl to enhance its visual appeal. Garnishing the dish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese can elevate its presentation and entice guests to try it.
• Transporting: To ensure it stays warm and fresh during transport, consider using insulated containers or wrapping the dish in foil. If the dish can be served warm, it might be beneficial to heat it up just before serving to maintain its flavor and texture.
• Serving Suggestions: At the potluck, offer serving utensils and small plates for guests to help themselves. If the gathering is large, setting out the dish alongside a variety of other options allows guests to mix and match, creating a personalized meal experience that encourages sharing and conversation.

In conclusion, whether served as a main course, side dish, or potluck favorite, this dish’s versatility allows it to shine in various culinary contexts. By considering complementary sides, suitable pairings, and presentation techniques, you can create an inviting and enjoyable dining experience for any occasion.

Additional Tips

To further elevate your creamy scalloped potatoes with ham and ensure they are a hit at your next meal, consider these detailed tips that enhance flavor, texture, and preparation convenience:

1. Potato Selection

Choosing the right type of potato is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and creaminess in your scalloped potatoes.

• Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes are the go-to choice for scalloped potatoes. Their high starch content not only helps the sauce to thicken but also gives the dish a fluffy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. When cooked, Russets become soft and tender, allowing them to absorb the flavors of the cheese and ham.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes: If you prefer a creamier consistency, Yukon Golds are an excellent alternative. They have a buttery flavor and a waxy texture that holds up well during baking. This variety lends a slightly sweet taste and a rich mouthfeel, making your dish even more indulgent. For the best results, you can mix both types of potatoes, utilizing the starchy quality of Russets and the creaminess of Yukons.

2. Cheese Variety

While sharp cheddar is a time-honored choice for scalloped potatoes, diversifying your cheese selection can create a more complex and delightful flavor profile.

• Gruyère: This Swiss cheese melts beautifully and adds a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that complements the richness of the cream. Gruyère creates a luxurious texture and enhances the overall depth of the dish.
• Monterey Jack: Known for its mild flavor and excellent melting properties, Monterey Jack can add creaminess without overpowering the other ingredients. It’s particularly good for those who prefer a less intense cheese flavor.
• Blue Cheese: For an adventurous twist, crumbling a bit of blue cheese into your sauce can introduce a bold, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the potatoes and the savory ham.
• Combination of Cheeses: Don’t hesitate to mix and match! Combining different cheeses can yield a unique flavor and texture. A blend of cheddar, Gruyère, and a touch of Parmesan can create a rich, balanced sauce.

3. Add Vegetables

Incorporating vegetables not only enhances the nutritional value of your dish but also adds exciting flavors and textures.

• Mushrooms: Thinly sliced mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, can bring an earthy richness to your scalloped potatoes. Sautéing them briefly before layering them in can intensify their flavor.
• Bell Peppers: Sweet bell peppers, sliced thinly, can add a pop of color and sweetness. They can be layered in between the potato slices or sautéed beforehand to soften their texture.
• Spinach or Kale: Adding dark leafy greens like spinach or kale not only boosts the nutritional profile but also provides a fresh contrast to the creamy potatoes. Ensure they are wilted and excess moisture is squeezed out before layering to prevent a watery dish.

4. Make Ahead

Preparing your scalloped potatoes in advance can save you time and stress, especially during busy meal preparations.

• Assemble the Dish: You can layer your potatoes, ham, and cheese sauce in the baking dish a day ahead of time. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Storage: When storing in the refrigerator, be sure to keep it at a consistent temperature to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
• Baking: When you’re ready to bake, allow the dish to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking. This helps prevent the baking dish from cracking due to temperature shock. Adjust the baking time slightly if you’re starting with a cold dish; it may take longer to cook through.

5. Leftover Ham Considerations

Using leftover ham can add a delightful convenience to your scalloped potatoes, but it’s essential to consider its saltiness.

• Tasting the Ham: Before adding your ham to the dish, taste a small piece to gauge its saltiness. If it’s particularly salty, you may want to reduce the amount of salt in your cheese sauce or use a low-sodium broth.
• Balancing Flavors: If the ham is salty, consider adding a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of brown sugar in the cheese sauce can counteract the saltiness and enhance the overall flavor profile.

By following these tips, you can create a stunning and delicious dish of creamy scalloped potatoes with ham that will impress your family and friends while satisfying your taste buds. Enjoy the process of experimentation and find the perfect combination that suits your palate!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use pre-sliced potatoes from the store?

A: Yes, you can use pre-sliced potatoes from the store to save time. Just ensure they are fresh and of good quality.

Q2: What can I substitute for ham?

A: If you’re looking for a ham substitute, consider using cooked bacon, turkey, or roasted chicken.

Q3: Can I freeze scalloped potatoes with ham?

A: Yes, you can freeze this dish. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through.

Q4: How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

A: To prevent curdling, make sure to add the milk slowly while whisking constantly, and avoid cooking the sauce over high heat.

Q5: Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

A: Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy scalloped potatoes with ham is the epitome of comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction to any table. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and crispy ham, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, it’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. By following the detailed instructions, tips, and suggestions provided, you’re well on your way to creating a delicious meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and make this recipe your own. The beauty of cooking is the ability to adapt and personalize dishes to suit your taste and preferences. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Happy cooking!

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