Print

Cozy Ham and Scalloped Potato Bake

ham and scalloped potato bake - featured image
Print Recipe

A simple, hearty, and comforting bake featuring layers of tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy cheese sauce, perfect for family meals and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 cups cooked ham, diced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ cups whole milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream (optional but recommended)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter your 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle the flour over the butter and onion mixture. Whisk constantly for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
  4. Slowly add the milk and cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue cooking on medium heat until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add fresh thyme if using.
  6. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the buttered baking dish. Spread the diced ham evenly on top, then cover with the remaining potatoes.
  7. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and ham, making sure all potatoes are coated well.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
  9. Dot the top with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to help form a golden crust.
  10. Bake uncovered for 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
  11. Let the bake rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Notes

If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil halfway through baking. Uniform thin slices (about 1/8 inch) ensure even cooking. Letting the dish rest after baking helps the sauce set and improves serving. For gluten-free, substitute flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend. Dairy-free substitutions include almond or oat milk and vegan cheese and butter alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: ham, scalloped potatoes, casserole, family meal, comfort food, cheesy bake, easy dinner

Find it online: https://lumalunch.com/cozy-ham-and-scalloped-potato-bake-easy-family-meal-recipe/