Sounds Bad, Tastes Good "Scalloped Potatoes"
Creamy and savory scalloped potatoes layered with crispy Spam slices, baked to perfection with a rich white sauce. Perfect for hearty family dinners or comfort food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash, peel, and slice potatoes very thin.
- Slice Spam longways into strips.
- Spray a casserole dish with cooking spray such as Pam.
- Start with a layer of white sauce at the bottom of the casserole.
- Add a layer of sliced potatoes over the sauce.
- Place Spam slices on top of the potatoes.
- Repeat layers: white sauce, potatoes, Spam until all ingredients are used.
- Season the layers to taste.
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 1.5 hours, or until potatoes are tender and Spam is crispy.
- Remove foil during the last 30 minutes to allow Spam to become crunchy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding shredded cheese between the layers or mixing some into the white sauce. If you're looking for a healthier twist, try using turkey Spam or a plant-based alternative. You can also incorporate vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition. Ensure even cooking by slicing potatoes uniformly and checking for doneness before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside classic American recipes like grilled chicken or barbecue ribs for a hearty dinner. For a fun twist, consider serving with Icebox Carrots as a refreshing side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but they may not achieve the same crispy texture as oven reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sounds Bad, Tastes Good "Scalloped Potatoes" contains roughly 670 calories, with 11g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (51% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh potatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh potatoes are ideal for this recipe. Just make sure to wash, peel, and slice them thinly to ensure even cooking. If you're short on time, pre-sliced frozen potatoes can be a convenient substitute, but fresh provides the best texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of Spam?
If you're looking for a healthier or vegetarian option, consider using diced grilled chicken, turkey bacon, or even a vegan sausage. These alternatives will still provide protein and flavor while catering to different dietary needs.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that your white sauce is prepared with gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener. Additionally, check the label of Spam or its substitute to confirm they are gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten in their ingredients.
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).