Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Looking for the best recipe for cheesy scalloped potatoes and ham? This creamy casserole features tender Yukon Gold potatoes layered with a rich cheese sauce made from cheddar and Gruyere, plus savory diced ham. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or potlucks, this easy-to-make dish is both hearty and flavorful. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you can create a delicious, crowd-pleasing side dish or main course. Whether you’re using leftover ham or making it from scratch, this recipe is guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients

Potatoes:

• 6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and sliced

Cheese Sauce:

• 4 Tablespoons butter
• 1 yellow onion, sliced into strings
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups half-and-half (or milk)
• ¾ teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon sage
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (reserve ½ cup for topping)
• ½ cup shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced

Topping/Garnish:

• ¼ cup Parmesan, finely grated
• 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley, roughly chopped

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Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

1. Shred the cheddar and Gruyere cheese. Set aside and bring to room temperature for smooth melting. Reserve ½ cup of cheddar for the topping.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
3. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually mix in the flour, stirring constantly, to form a paste. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Warm the half-and-half in the microwave for 30 seconds to temper it. Slowly add it to the saucepan, stirring until smooth.
7. Add rosemary, oregano, thyme, and sage. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
8. Gradually mix in 1½ cups of cheddar and ½ cup of Gruyere until smooth. Stir in the diced ham, reserving some for the topping if desired.

Assemble the Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Slice the potatoes into thin rounds, approximately 1/8 inch thick (use a mandoline slicer for best results).
3. Lightly grease a 9×13 casserole dish. Layer ⅓ of the potato slices on the bottom, overlapping slightly.
4. Spoon ⅓ of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly with a pastry brush. Repeat for two more layers.
5. Top with the reserved cheddar cheese and diced ham.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Finish the Casserole:

1. Remove the foil and sprinkle the Parmesan evenly over the top.
2. Lower the oven temperature to 375°F and bake for an additional 25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Classic: Creamy, cheesy, and hearty, this dish is perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and leftover ham for a budget-friendly meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready for easy entertaining.

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Tips

• Perfect Slicing: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform potato slices, ensuring even cooking.
• Cheese Temperature: Let the cheese come to room temperature before mixing into the sauce for a smoother result.
• Prevent Browning: Use a pastry brush to coat each layer of potatoes with cheese sauce to retain their color.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Potatoes: Substitute Yukon Gold with Russet or red potatoes for a different texture.
• Cheese Options: Swap Gruyere for Fontina, or use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a milder flavor.
• Meat-Free: Omit the ham for a vegetarian version and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.
• Herb Blend: Customize the seasoning by adding paprika or cayenne for a smoky kick.

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FAQs

Can I use precooked potatoes?
Yes, parboil the potato slices for 5 minutes before assembling the casserole for quicker baking.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate or freeze before baking. Add an extra 10 minutes to the bake time if cooking from chilled.

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Serving

• Main Dish: Serve as a standalone meal with a side salad or crusty bread.
• Side Dish: Pair with roasted chicken, turkey, or a holiday ham for a festive spread.

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Suggestions

• Toppings: Add crispy bacon, breadcrumbs, or chives for extra flavor and texture.
• Presentation: Serve in individual ramekins for a sophisticated twist.
• Leftover Ideas: Use leftovers as a filling for breakfast casseroles or savory crepes.

Enjoy this creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes and ham casserole—a comforting favorite for any occasion!