Why Make This Recipe
Scalloped Potatoes & Ham is a classic comfort dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. The combination of creamy potatoes, savory ham, and cheesy goodness creates a perfect blend of flavors that your family will love.
This dish isn’t just tasty; it’s also easy to prepare. With a few simple ingredients and cooking steps, you can whip up a meal that feels special without spending all day in the kitchen.
Equipment Needed For Scalloped Potatoes & Ham
To make this delicious dish, you will need a few essential kitchen tools. Firstly, a 2-quart shallow oval baking dish or a medium ovenproof skillet is necessary for assembling and baking your scalloped potatoes.
You’ll also want a small saucepan for cooking the cream sauce. A blender or an immersion blender will assist in making the sauce smooth, ensuring every bite is creamy and delightful. Don’t forget measuring cups and spoons to get your ingredients just right!
What You Need to Make Scalloped Potatoes & Ham
- 1 Tbsp. unsalted butter, softened
- 1 medium shallot, peeled, quartered
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 2 thyme sprigs
- 2 lb. russet potatoes (about 3 large), peeled, very thinly sliced
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 12 oz. baked ham, sliced 1/4" thick, divided
- 2 oz. Gruyere, finely grated (about 1 cup)
- 2 Tbsp. finely grated Parmesan
- Chopped fresh parsley, for serving
How to Cook Scalloped Potatoes & Ham Step by Step
First, arrange a rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Take your baking dish or ovenproof skillet and grease it with softened butter to prevent sticking.
Next, in a small saucepan, add the quartered shallots and garlic cloves together with the heavy cream. Place this over medium-low heat and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally while cooking for about 15 minutes. The goal here is to ensure the shallots and garlic become very tender.
Once they are tender, let the mixture cool slightly. After cooling, discard the thyme sprigs from the sauce. Then, pour the mixture into a blender and blend it until it reaches a smooth consistency.
Now it’s time to start layering your dish. Spread one-third of the cream sauce on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Next, add half of the thinly sliced potatoes, ensuring they are spread out evenly. Sprinkle some Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for seasoning over the potatoes.
On top of the seasoned potatoes, add half of the sliced ham. Pour another third of the cream sauce over the ham. Repeat this process for the remaining potatoes and ham, finishing with the last third of the cream sauce. Once assembled, tightly cover the dish with aluminum foil to trap the moisture inside.
Place the dish in the oven to bake. Allow it to cook for about an hour or until the sauce is bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
After an hour, carefully remove the foil from the dish. As a finishing touch, sprinkle the finely grated Gruyere and Parmesan cheese over the top layers of potatoes and ham.
Next, turn on your broiler. Make sure to watch closely while broiling the dish until the cheese becomes bubbly and golden, which should take about 4 minutes.
Once finished, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley to brighten the dish before serving.
How To Make Scalloped Potatoes & Ham
Making Scalloped Potatoes & Ham is about layering flavors and textures. Starting with the tender shallots and garlic sautéed in cream creates a rich base that enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes and ham. The blend of cheeses adds creaminess and a deliciously cheesy crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft potatoes below.
You can adjust the amount of salt and pepper according to your taste preferences while layering the potatoes and ham. This dish allows for creativity; if you want, you can add other vegetables or even additional spices that suit your palate.
How To Serve Scalloped Potatoes & Ham
Scalloped Potatoes & Ham can be served as a hearty main dish, offering a fulfilling meal on its own. You can accompany it with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies if you desire something more.
When serving, it’s nice to present it straight from the oven, bubbling and golden. Scoop generous portions for your guests, ensuring everyone gets a fair share of the creamy sauce, savory ham, and tender potatoes.
What To Serve With Scalloped Potatoes & Ham
For a well-rounded meal, consider serving Scalloped Potatoes & Ham with a crisp side salad featuring mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette. Lightly sautéed green beans or steamed broccoli also pair well with the creamy dish.
If you’re looking for a heartier side, homemade cornbread or a crusty loaf of bread can round out your meal. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water serves as a refreshing beverage that complements the rich flavors in the dish.
How To Store Scalloped Potatoes & Ham
If you have leftovers, storing them properly is important to maintain freshness. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you wish to reheat, place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil to prevent drying out and reheat at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through.
Tips To Make Scalloped Potatoes & Ham
Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve perfectly thin potato slices, ensuring they cook evenly. It’s worth taking your time with this step, as thickness can greatly affect the cooking time and texture of the potatoes.
To add a bit more flavor, consider using smoked ham, which introduces an additional smoky depth to the dish. Experimenting with herbs like rosemary can also enhance the taste.
Make sure not to skip the broiling step at the end, as this is what creates the golden, crunchy top that everyone loves!
Variation
While the classic recipe is delightful, there are several variations to consider. You might try adding layers of sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding diced jalapeños or sprinkled red pepper flakes can give a kick to your dish. You could also switch up the cheese, using sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.
Best Time To Make Scalloped Potatoes & Ham
Scalloped Potatoes & Ham is perfect for family gatherings, holiday meals, or even a cozy weeknight dinner. It’s ideal for serving a crowd, making it a great dish for potluck dinners or celebrations.
This recipe can easily fit into your weekly meal rotation, especially during the colder months when comfort food is most craved.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
One common mistake is not cutting the potatoes thinly enough. Thicker slices may not cook properly, leading to crunchy potatoes instead of the desired creamy texture.
Another mistake is skipping the resting time after baking. Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes lets the layers settle, making it easier to serve.
Lastly, do not rush the broiling; keep a close eye on your dish to prevent burning the cheese topping.
Nutritional Notes
Scalloped Potatoes & Ham is a hearty dish, combining essential nutrients from potatoes and protein from ham. However, it’s also rich in calories and fat due to the cream and cheese.
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat dairy alternatives or reducing the amount of cheese while maintaining the same delicious flavors.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Scalloped Potatoes & Ham a day ahead. Simply layer the ingredients, cover them, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
2. How do I know when the potatoes are done?
The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender, and the sauce is bubbling. Poke a slice to check its tenderness.
3. Can I freeze leftover scalloped potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. It’s best to store them in an airtight container, although the texture may change slightly once thawed.
Conclusion
Scalloped Potatoes & Ham is a delightful mix of flavors that is simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With creamy potatoes, savory ham, and rich cheese, it’s a dish that warms the heart. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to impress. Share this recipe with loved ones and enjoy the comforting tastes it brings to the table!
Scalloped Potatoes & Ham
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish with softened butter.
- In a small saucepan, combine shallots, garlic, and heavy cream. Simmer over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes until tender.
- Cool slightly, discard thyme, and blend the mixture until smooth.
- Spread one-third of the cream sauce on the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly over the sauce.
- Season with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Add half of the sliced ham over the seasoned potatoes.
- Pour another third of the cream sauce over the ham.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes and ham, finishing with the last third of the cream sauce.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about one hour until the sauce is bubbly and potatoes are tender.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle Gruyere and Parmesan on top, and broil for approximately 4 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before garnishing with parsley and serving.
