Make this classic, creamy, and cheesy scalloped potatoes and ham casserole. It is a hearty comfort food dish perfect for using leftover ham or serving at holiday gatherings.
Author:Cat
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:65 min
Total Time:85 min
Yield:8 servings 1x
Category:Casserole
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
2 cups cooked ham, diced
1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Prepare the sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth. Continue to cook, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese and all of the Gruyère cheese (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Assemble the casserole: Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the diced ham and half of the chopped onion over the potatoes. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the layers.
Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, ham, and onion. Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the top layer.
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad for a complete meal, or consider it alongside your **meal planning** for holiday feasts.
Notes
For a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with chicken broth.
If you are preparing this ahead of time, assemble the entire casserole (without the final cheese topping) and cover it. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 15 minutes to the initial covered baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
This recipe is a great way to use up holiday leftovers, similar to how some **meal delivery services** focus on quick, hearty meals.