Few comfort foods are as satisfying and nostalgic as a warm, creamy dish of scalloped potatoes and ham. This classic casserole combines tender layers of thinly sliced potatoes, smoky ham, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce baked until golden and bubbly. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser—hearty enough to serve as a main dish yet versatile enough to pair with other favorites.
This dish is especially popular around the holidays, when leftover ham from Easter, Christmas, or Sunday dinners can be transformed into something spectacular. But it’s not limited to special occasions. Scalloped potatoes and ham make for an excellent weeknight dinner that fills the house with mouthwatering aromas and leaves everyone satisfied.
If you’ve been searching for a dish that combines practicality, flavor, and old-fashioned comfort, this recipe is exactly what you need.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons this dish has stood the test of time:
Comfort Food Classic – Creamy, cheesy potatoes paired with smoky ham make every bite rich and satisfying.
Great for Leftovers – It’s one of the best ways to use leftover holiday ham.
Family-Friendly – Both kids and adults love it, and it’s easy to prepare in large batches for gatherings.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare it ahead of time and bake when you’re ready for dinner.
Versatile Meal – Serve it as a main course with a salad or as a hearty side dish alongside roasted meats.
With its creamy layers and golden crust, scalloped potatoes and ham is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
To prepare scalloped potatoes and ham, you’ll need:
Potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold work best for their creamy texture.
Ham – Cubed, cooked ham adds smoky flavor and protein.
Butter – For making the roux and adding richness.
Onion – Sautéed for extra flavor in the sauce.
Flour – Thickens the creamy sauce.
Milk & Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, velvety sauce.
Cheese – Cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix adds gooey, melty flavor.
Salt, Pepper & Garlic Powder – For seasoning.
Parsley – Optional garnish for freshness and color.
Directions
Making scalloped potatoes and ham is easier than it looks. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Prep the Ingredients – Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes (about ⅛-inch thick). Dice the cooked ham.
Make the Sauce – In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until melted.
Layer the Dish – Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Add half the sliced potatoes, followed by half the ham and half the sauce. Repeat with remaining potatoes, ham, and sauce.
Top with Cheese – Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.
Bake – Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Rest and Serve – Let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Servings and Pairing
This recipe makes 6–8 servings, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings.
Pairing ideas:
Main Dish – Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
Side Dish – Pair with roasted chicken, baked ham, or grilled steak.
Holiday Spread – Add it to the table alongside green beans, rolls, and cranberry sauce for a complete meal.
No matter how you serve it, scalloped potatoes and ham is sure to be the star of the table.
Variations
Want to put your own spin on this classic recipe? Here are some fun variations:
Cheesy Deluxe – Add mozzarella or Swiss cheese for extra gooeyness.
Veggie Boost – Layer in spinach, broccoli, or peas for extra nutrition.
Spicy Kick – Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat.
Bacon Twist – Add crispy bacon bits along with the ham for smoky, savory flavor.
Gluten-Free – Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce.
These variations make it easy to adapt the recipe to your family’s preferences.
Storage/Reheating
This dish is just as delicious the next day, making it great for leftovers:
Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing – Freeze cooled portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating – Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or reheat individual servings in the microwave.
Tip: Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to keep the sauce creamy.
FAQs
Can I use raw ham instead of cooked ham?
It’s best to use cooked ham, but if you only have raw ham, cook it first before adding it to the casserole.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional. If you like extra texture and nutrients, leave the skins on, especially if using Yukon Gold potatoes.
Can I make scalloped potatoes and ham ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready. Add 10–15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Why are my potatoes not fully cooked?
If your slices are too thick, they may take longer to cook. Slice them thinly (⅛-inch) for best results.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, half-and-half works well. The sauce will be slightly lighter but still creamy.
Conclusion
Scalloped potatoes and ham is the kind of recipe that never goes out of style. Creamy, cheesy, hearty, and full of flavor, it’s comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish for a busy weeknight dinner or as a side for a festive holiday meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
With simple ingredients, easy steps, and endless variations, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen. The next time you have leftover ham—or just crave something warm and comforting—give scalloped potatoes and ham a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Print
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Scalloped Potatoes and Ham recipe is creamy, cheesy, and comforting—a perfect way to use leftover ham. With tender potato layers baked in a rich sauce, it’s an easy family dinner or holiday side dish.
Ingredients
- 6 medium potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until melted.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the prepared dish. Layer half of the potatoes, half of the ham, and half of the sauce. Repeat with remaining potatoes, ham, and sauce.
- Top with the remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 20–25 minutes, until potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- Slice potatoes thinly (about ⅛-inch) for even cooking.
- Add mozzarella, Gruyère, or Swiss for a cheesier, richer casserole.
- For a veggie boost, layer in spinach, broccoli, or peas.
- Prepare ahead: assemble up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- To reheat leftovers, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes