Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes With Ham
Creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes layered with ham, perfect for family dinners or entertaining, offering rich flavors and comforting textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a casserole dish, melt margarine on the bottom.
- Layer the dish with sliced potatoes, then sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese, Colby Longhorn cheese, ham, flour, minced onions, salt, and pepper.
- Repeat the layering process with remaining ingredients, ending with a layer of cheese, ham, flour, onions, salt, and pepper on top.
- Pour hot milk evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Cover the dish and bake in a 350°F oven for 40 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, stir the mixture gently, then return to the oven and bake for an additional 40 minutes.
- Let sit for 20 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding garlic powder or a dash of paprika between the layers. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute half of the potatoes with cauliflower. Be sure to slice the potatoes evenly for uniform cooking, and using a mandoline can help achieve this. If you have leftover ham, it can be diced and added for more protein.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. For a comforting meal, serve alongside J L H Chunky Tomato Soup for a delightful combination. A light vinaigrette on the salad can enhance the flavors without overpowering the cheesy potatoes. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warm throughout, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes With Ham contains roughly 668 calories, with 9g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1509mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Cheddar and Colby Longhorn provide a great flavor mix, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp blue cheese for a unique twist. Just ensure that the cheeses melt well to maintain the creamy texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When ready to bake, you may need to increase the baking time slightly to account for the cold ingredients.
Is it necessary to cover the dish while baking?
Covering the dish during the first part of baking helps to steam the potatoes, ensuring they cook through. However, uncovering it during the last part allows the top to brown and become bubbly. This combination results in a deliciously creamy texture with a golden, crispy topping.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).