Scalloped Potatoes 'N Franks
Creamy scalloped potatoes layered with Swiss cheese and topped with fresh parsley, complemented by savory baked ham. A hearty, cheesy side perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place ham on a broiler pan and bake at 325°F for 1 hour.
- Preheat oven and prepare the scalloped potato layer.
- In a saucepan, cook chopped onion in butter until tender.
- Stir in flour, pepper, salt, and milk; cook until thickened.
- Layer sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the sauce over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese on top.
- Bake in the oven until potatoes are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with minced fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you're short on Swiss cheese, a mix of Gruyère and mozzarella can work well. To save time, you can prep the scalloped potatoes a day in advance. Just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. For a flavor boost, try adding some garlic or nutmeg to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Scalloped Potatoes 'N Franks pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Consider serving with a tangy cranberry-sour cream salad for a refreshing contrast. This dish can also be a hearty side for grilled meats or a comforting main dish during colder months. For a complete meal, serve with crusty bread or rolls.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover scalloped potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You may want to cover it with foil to prevent the top from over-browning. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the potatoes rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scalloped Potatoes 'N Franks contains roughly 1187 calories, with 13g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 88g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (48% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1348mg per serving (59% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish and assemble it a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What type of potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal for scalloped potatoes as they break down nicely during cooking, creating a creamy texture. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they won't soften as well and may result in a less desirable consistency.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for vegetarian diets by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of milk. You can also add layers of sautéed vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, for added flavor and nutrition.
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).