Name: The Coziest Scalloped Ham & Potatoes – Just Like Grandma Made
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups potatoes, thinly sliced (Russet or Yukon Gold); 2 cups cooked ham, diced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 tbsp butter; 3 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)

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If there’s one dish that screams comfort food, it’s a warm, cheesy pan of Scalloped Ham & Potatoes fresh out of the oven. This is the kind of meal that brings back childhood memories—layers of tender potatoes, smoky ham, and a creamy, cheesy sauce baked until bubbly and golden. Whether you’re using up leftover ham or just craving something cozy, this dish is always a winner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Great for leftovers – Got leftover holiday ham? This is the best way to use it up.
Simple ingredients – No fancy ingredients here—just pantry staples.
Perfectly creamy – The sauce is rich, cheesy, and coats every bite.
Make ahead – Assemble it in advance and bake when ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need—full list is below.

Potatoes – Russet or Yukon Golds work best for a creamy texture.
Ham – Leftover ham works great, but deli ham can be used too.
Onion – Adds a subtle sweetness.
Butter & flour – The base of the creamy sauce.
Milk – Helps create that rich, smooth texture.
Cheese – Sharp cheddar is my go-to, but any melty cheese works.

Step-by-Step Directions

Slice the Potatoes

Thinly slice your potatoes so they cook evenly. If you have a mandoline, this makes the process even faster.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan, then whisk in the flour to make a roux. Slowly pour in the milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Add shredded cheese and mix until melted and smooth.

Layer the Ingredients

In a greased baking dish, layer half the potatoes, followed by ham and onions. Pour half the sauce over the top, then repeat the layers.

Bake Until Golden

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for about 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 15-20 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Let It Rest

Let the dish sit for about 10 minutes before serving—this helps it set up.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Slice potatoes evenly – This ensures they cook at the same rate.
Use pre-shredded cheese sparingly – It doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly shredded cheese.
Make it extra creamy – Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for even more richness.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Add veggies – Peas or sautéed mushrooms are great additions.
Switch the cheese – Swap cheddar for Gruyère or Swiss for a new flavor.
Use sweet potatoes – For a slightly sweeter, more unique take.
Make it spicy – Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne to the sauce.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Side salad – A crisp green salad balances out the richness.
Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
Steamed veggies – Broccoli or green beans make a great side.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat – Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave in short bursts.
Freeze – This freezes well! Wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?

Yes! If using pre-cooked or leftover potatoes, reduce baking time by about 15 minutes.

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the best way to slice potatoes thinly?

A mandoline slicer is the easiest way, but a sharp knife works too.

Can I use a different meat?

Yes! Cooked turkey, bacon, or even sausage would work great.

Conclusion

This Scalloped Ham & Potatoes is the ultimate cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or using up holiday leftovers. With layers of cheesy, creamy goodness, it’s one of those meals you’ll keep coming back to. Try it once, and I promise—it’ll become a regular in your comfort food lineup.

The Coziest Scalloped Ham & Potatoes – Just Like Grandma Made

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This Scalloped Ham & Potatoes recipe is the ultimate comfort food—layers of tender potatoes, smoky ham, and a rich, cheesy sauce baked to perfection. It’s a great way to use up leftover ham and is perfect for a cozy family meal.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
Slice the Potatoes – Thinly slice potatoes for even cooking.
Make the Creamy Sauce – In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk, whisking until thickened. Stir in cheese until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Layer the Ingredients – In the greased baking dish, layer half the potatoes, followed by ham and onions. Pour half the sauce over the top. Repeat with remaining potatoes, ham, and sauce.
Bake – Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Rest and Serve – Let the dish sit for 10 minutes before serving.