Introduction and Quick Summary
Scalloped potatoes with ham and cheese are a classic comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. This delicious dish combines tender sliced potatoes layered with savory ham, all smothered in a rich cheese sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, these scalloped potatoes are both easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful.
The combination of creamy cheeses melds beautifully with the layers of thinly sliced potatoes, while the addition of ham adds a hearty touch that makes this dish even more satisfying. Whether you serve it as a side or as a main course alongside a fresh salad, scalloped potatoes with ham and cheese will not disappoint. In this article, we will walk you through the essential ingredients needed to create this delightful dish, provide detailed step-by-step instructions for preparation, and share some tips on how to serve and store leftovers effectively.
Get ready to indulge in a creamy masterpiece that brings comfort food to another level. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to make these scrumptious scalloped potatoes.
Main Ingredients
Potatoes
The key ingredient in scalloped potatoes is the potatoes themselves. You can use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their excellent texture when baked. You will need about 2 pounds of potatates peeled and thinly sliced. The slices should be around an eighth of an inch thick for even cooking. Parboiling them before layering can enhance their tenderness.
Ham
For this recipe, you will need 1 cup of diced cooked ham. Choose a quality smoked or honey-baked variety for added flavor. The saltiness from the ham balances perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce and adds depth to the overall taste of the dish. Ensure that it’s cut into small cubes for even distribution throughout the layers.
Cheese
Cheese is what brings everything together in this recipe! You will need 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese for its sharp flavor that complements the other ingredients nicely. Feel free to mix in other types like Monterey Jack or Gruyere for added creaminess or flavor complexity. The cheese should be evenly distributed between layers and reserved on top for that gooey finish.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream is essential for creating that luscious sauce that coats the potatoes and ham beautifully. You will need 2 cups of heavy cream mixed with seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to elevate the flavors further. The richness of heavy cream ensures your dish remains creamy rather than dry during baking.
Butter
Butter is vital for greasing your baking dish and adds extra flavor as it melts during cooking. Use about 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to grease your casserole dish thoroughly; this prevents sticking while enhancing flavors throughout cooking.
How to Prepare Scalloped Potatoes with Ham and Cheese
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures an even bake from start to finish so every layer cooks properly without burning or becoming too crispy at edges while undercooked inside.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
While waiting for your oven temperature to rise, take your chosen baking dish (a 9×13 inch casserole dish works great) and grease it thoroughly using unsalted butter (about two tablespoons). This step keeps your scalloped potatoes from sticking while they bake—ensuring easy serving later.
Step 3: Layering Ingredients
Start layering by placing one-third of your sliced raw potatoes at the bottom of the greased baking dish; sprinkle half of your diced ham on top followed by one cup shredded cheddar cheese over everything evenly distributed across layers before repeating twice more until all ingredients are used up—finishing off last layer solely topped with remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Create Creamy Sauce
In a bowl combine two cups heavy cream along with seasonings such as salt (to taste), pepper (to taste), garlic powder (one teaspoon), onion powder (one teaspoon). Whisk until fully combined then pour mixture over layered ingredients evenly ensuring moisture seeps between every layer; no dry spots allowed here!
Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown
Cover your baking dish tightly using aluminum foil; place it into preheated oven allowing it to cook undisturbed for approximately one hour—this ensures all ingredients meld together beautifully while softening those potato layers underneath! After an hour has passed carefully remove foil covering then continue baking uncovered additional twenty minutes until top becomes golden brown bubbling away happily signaling readiness!
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestions
Once out from oven let rest five minutes before serving—the resting time allows flavors settle down giving everyone chance savor their portions! Serve warm alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots complimenting hearty nature full plate meal provides balanced nourishment every bite provides satisfaction which encourages second helpings!
Consider garnishing each serving plate freshly chopped parsley adding pop color presentation elevating visual appeal—after all we eat first using our eyes! A light salad dressed simply would also pair wonderfully balancing richness found within creamy sauce present throughout entire casserole.
Storage Options
If you happen have leftovers after enjoying dinner don’t worry—they can easily stored within refrigerator up three days safely! Allow completely cool down room temperature then transfer remaining portions airtight container sealing tightly preventing moisture loss drying out contents inside.
To reheat simply place desired amount onto microwave-safe plate heat low medium power intervals stirring halfway through until warmed evenly throughout—this method preserves flavors while keeping original texture intact nicely!
Alternatively if planning ahead consider freezing portions wrapping tightly plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil ensuring freshness maintained longer periods time just remember thaw overnight refrigerator prior reheating enjoy next time craving strikes again!
Mistakes to avoid
When preparing scalloped potatoes with ham and cheese, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. One major mistake is not slicing the potatoes evenly. Uneven slices can lead to some pieces being undercooked while others become mushy. Aim for uniform thickness, ideally around 1/8 inch. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent slices quickly.
Another common error is skimping on the cheese or using low-quality cheese. The cheese plays a crucial role in flavor and creaminess, so choose varieties like sharp cheddar or Gruyère for a rich taste. Also, consider grating the cheese yourself instead of using pre-shredded options, as these often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting qualities.
Failing to season properly is another pitfall. Each layer of potatoes should receive its fair share of salt and pepper to build flavor throughout the dish. Don’t forget to season the cream mixture as well; this will enhance the overall taste of your scalloped potatoes with ham and cheese.
Overcooking or undercooking the dish is also an issue many face. Keep an eye on baking time, as ovens can vary significantly. For best results, use a fork to test doneness; if it easily pierces through the potatoes, they are ready. Remember, letting it rest after baking will help thicken the sauce and improve texture.
Finally, many people skip adding a crispy topping, which adds texture and visual appeal to your dish. Whether you opt for breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan or additional cheese on top, it creates an inviting crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers below.
Tips and tricks
To elevate your scalloped potatoes with ham and cheese, start by choosing the right type of potato. Starchy varieties like Russets hold their shape well during cooking and absorb flavors effectively. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider Yukon Golds for their buttery consistency.
Incorporating aromatics is another tip that can enhance flavor significantly. Sauté onions or garlic in butter before adding them into the layers of potatoes and ham. This step infuses each bite with savory goodness that complements the richness of cheese and cream.
Layering is essential for even cooking and flavor distribution. Start with a layer of sliced potatoes, followed by ham, then pour over some cream mixture before repeating this pattern until all ingredients are used up. This technique ensures that every bite delivers a delicious combination of flavors.
Choosing the right cream mixture also matters greatly in achieving a luscious sauce. A blend of heavy cream and milk provides both richness and balance without being overly heavy. Consider adding nutmeg or mustard powder for an unexpected depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with both ham and cheese.
Experimenting with different cheeses can yield exciting results too! While sharp cheddar is traditional, combining it with other cheeses like fontina or mozzarella not only enhances flavor but also alters texture—creating gooey pockets throughout your scalloped potatoes with ham and cheese.
Lastly, don’t rush serving; allow your dish to cool slightly after baking. This resting period allows flavors to meld while helping prevent burns when serving hot portions directly from the oven.
Suggestions for Scalloped Potatoes with Ham and Cheese
For an enhanced version of scalloped potatoes with ham and cheese, consider incorporating vegetables into your recipe for added nutrition and color. Spinach or broccoli makes excellent choices that not only boost health benefits but also add vibrant green hues against creamy potatoes.
Use homemade stock in place of water when preparing your cream sauce; this simple swap creates a more complex base layer filled with flavors from herbs or roasted meats—perfectly complementing the richness found within your dish!
Another suggestion involves experimenting with different types of ham: smoked, honey-baked, or even leftover holiday ham could work wonders in adding varying depths of flavor profile while keeping things interesting at mealtime!
Don’t hesitate to play around with herbs! Fresh thyme or rosemary sprinkled within each layer brings nature’s freshness directly into your meal—adding aromatic notes alongside robust cheesy goodness makes every bite unforgettable!
Serving suggestions are just as crucial; pair scalloped potatoes with light salads featuring citrus-based dressings that balance richness well—think arugula topped lightly dressed avocado salad right beside those golden layers!
Finally, consider making this dish ahead of time! As flavors deepen over hours (or overnight), you might find even tastier results upon reheating before serving—an excellent choice for busy weeknights!
FAQs
What type of potato works best for scalloped potatoes?
When choosing the best potato for scalloped potatoes with ham and cheese, starchy varieties like Russets are ideal due to their high starch content which contributes to fluffy texture while absorbing flavors beautifully during cooking. Yukon Golds also work well if you prefer a slightly creamier mouthfeel since they hold up nicely without becoming mushy when baked properly.
Can I prepare scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing scalloped potatoes ahead allows flavors to meld beautifully over time; simply assemble the layers but refrain from baking until you’re ready to serve! Refrigerate tightly covered until needed—then bake as directed straight from cold storage without needing adjustments on cooking times unless they’ve been stored longer than 24 hours.
Is it possible to substitute milk for heavy cream?
While you may substitute milk instead if desired (particularly whole milk), keep in mind that doing so could alter final texture & richness quite drastically compared to using heavy cream alone—or even better: try mixing both together! This combination yields an ideal balance between decadent creamy goodness yet still remains lighter than solely relying on heavier dairy products.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover scalloped potatoes within airtight containers placed inside refrigerating units promptly following meal completion—this ensures maximum freshness retention! Reheat gently either via microwave settings or conventional ovens until warmed through evenly before enjoying those delightful flavors once again!
Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
Freezing cooked scalloped potatoes isn’t recommended primarily due to changes in texture upon thawing; however if necessary: ensure they cool completely before transferring into freezer-safe containers—label accurately regarding date frozen so you’ll remember them later down line when craving hits!
What sides pair well with this dish?
Scalloped potatoes often shine alongside hearty protein options such as baked chicken breasts served alongside sautéed green beans drizzled lightly flavored butter sauce—this balances richness present within main course wonderfully while keeping overall meal satisfying yet light enough not overwhelming diners’ palates altogether!
Conclusion
In summary, creating delicious scalloped potatoes with ham and cheese requires attention to detail at every stage—from selecting quality ingredients such as uniform potato slices through ensuring proper seasoning techniques applied consistently across various layers involved within preparation methods employed throughout cooking process itself! Avoid common pitfalls like uneven slicing or inadequate ingredient choices while embracing helpful tips including vegetable additions & alternative cheesy variations explored creatively will lead towards successful outcomes enjoyed by all family members gathered around tables during mealtime celebrations alike! By navigating these guidelines effectively combined alongside answering frequently asked questions surrounding dish specifics guarantees ultimate satisfaction achieved upon indulging flavorful creations prepared carefully over time!
