Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Ham: A Comfort Food Classic

 When it comes to indulgent comfort food, nothing beats a home-cooked dish packed with creamy cheese, tender potatoes, and savory ham. Cheesy scalloped potatoes with ham is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even a cozy night at home. It’s warm, filling, and loaded with bold flavors and textures that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re repurposing leftover ham or cooking it fresh, this recipe is a hearty addition to any meal plan.

Here’s how to create this irresistible dish step by step.

Ingredients

To prepare this cheesy masterpiece, you’ll need the following ingredients. The recipe serves 6-8 people, so adjust as needed if you’re cooking for a bigger or smaller crowd.

For the Dish

• 2 lbs (about 4 large) russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (or substitute with half and half for extra creaminess)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves (optional)

For the Topping

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for a crispy topping)
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Then, peel and slice your potatoes into even 1/8-inch thick rounds. Thin slices ensure they cook evenly, so take your time!

Set the potatoes aside and dice your cooked ham. Shred your cheese if it’s not pre-shredded, and chop the onion and garlic. Having everything ready makes the process smoother.

Step 2: Cook the Creamy Cheese Sauce

• Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s melted, stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux—this is the base of your creamy sauce.
• Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Keep whisking until the mixture starts to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
• Add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using) to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

• Spread a thin layer of the cheese sauce at the bottom of your greased baking dish.
• Add a layer of sliced potatoes, slightly overlapping them. Sprinkle some diced ham, chopped onion, and garlic on top. Drizzle with more cheese sauce.
• Repeat the layering process—potatoes, ham, onion, garlic, and sauce—until you’ve used up all the ingredients. Be sure to finish with a generous layer of cheese sauce on top.

Step 4: Add the Topping (Optional)

For a crunchy golden topping, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top layer of cheese sauce.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, and the top is golden and bubbly. Allow the dish to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to make slicing easier.

Tips & Customization

• Add Veggies: Want to sneak some greens into the dish? Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas between the layers.
• Switch the Cheese: Cheddar works wonders, but you can use Swiss, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
• Use Sweet Potatoes: For a unique twist, swap half of your regular potatoes with sweet potatoes. The sweetness pairs beautifully with the ham.
• Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the layers.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy scalloped potatoes with ham is a versatile dish that pairs well with a fresh garden salad or tangy coleslaw. For larger meals, serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon. This dish is also perfect for breakfast or brunch—add a fried egg on top for a hearty start to the day.

Whether you’re cooking for special occasions or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s comfort food at its finest, with creamy layers of cheesy goodness and savory ham packed in every bite. Try it out, and don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your go-to dishes!