Imagine a dish that combines the creamy richness of melted cheese, the hearty satisfaction of tender potatoes, and the savory punch of diced ham - all baked to golden, bubbling perfection. This Scalloped Ham Potato Casserole is not just a meal; it's a culinary hug that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience that will have your family begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 3 tablespoons flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 5 minutes.
- Remove sauce from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even base.
- Distribute half of the diced ham evenly over the potato layer.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the ham and potatoes, ensuring even coverage.
- Repeat the layering process with remaining potatoes, ham, and cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and cool slightly.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Slice potatoes uniformly thin to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the casserole.
- For extra flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar and gruyère for a more complex taste profile.
- To prevent a watery casserole, pat your diced ham dry with paper towels before layering to remove excess moisture.
- Allow the casserole to rest after baking - this helps the sauce set and makes serving much easier.
- For a crispy top, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Make this dish ahead of time by assembling and refrigerating, then baking when ready to serve - perfect for meal prep or entertaining!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 70mg
