Before diving into the creamy goodness of scalloped potatoes and ham, let’s consider what pairs well with this comforting dish. A crisp salad is a perfect balance. Try a refreshing arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. Roasted vegetables work wonders alongside too.
Think of tender asparagus or buttery carrots seasoned with herbs. If you want bread, warm dinner rolls with soft butter can soak up any extra creamy sauce. And if you’re in the mood for something hearty, a light soup like a vegetable minestrone complements this dish beautifully. It’s all about balance!
What is Scalloped Potatoes and Ham?
This dish is a classic comfort food, beloved in many households. At its core, scalloped potatoes consist of thinly sliced potatoes layered with creamy sauce and cheese.
When paired with chunks of hearty ham, the meal becomes wonderfully substantial. Originally, scalloped potatoes didn’t always include ham, but the addition of meat makes it hearty and delicious. It’s essentially a casserole that promises indulgence wrapped in every mouthful.
What Makes This Recipe Different from Other Scalloped Potatoes and Ham?
What sets my version apart? Well, using Yukon gold potatoes adds a creamy texture and buttery flavor that’s hard to beat. Plus, I incorporate seasonings like garlic powder and dried thyme to elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
Instead of merely relying on the ham for taste, these additions create complexity. Moreover, a hint of Dijon mustard sharpens the overall flavor, making each bite exciting and vivid. You won’t find any bland potatoes here!
How Does It Taste?
Imagine diving into a dish where creamy, cheesy potatoes embrace tender bites of smoky ham. There’s a medley of flavors dancing on your palate—from the subtle garlic hints to the earthy thyme that lifts the dish. The richness of the cheese—if you choose to add it—melds seamlessly with the mild sweetness of the onion, creating a taste sensation that’s both familiar and comforting. Seriously, it’s like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
To craft this delightful recipe, here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- 3 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced (about ⅛” thick)
- 2 cups diced, cooked smoked ham
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional but recommended for richness)
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder (for added depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (enhances creaminess and sharpens flavor)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter
- 1 small sweet onion, finely diced
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making scalloped potatoes and ham might seem daunting, but it’s more straightforward than you think. I’ll break it down into clear steps to guide you through the process.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the dish cooks evenly and reaches that perfect, bubbly state.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and peel the Yukon gold potatoes. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, thinly slice them into ⅛-inch rounds. Try to keep them even for consistent cooking later. Set aside the sliced potatoes.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling, add the finely diced onion. Sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Once the onion is ready, it’s time to add the flour. Whisk it in, cooking for about a minute. Gradually add the whole milk and low-sodium chicken broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, thyme, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
Step 5: Layer the Dish
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start layering. Place half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Sprinkle half of the diced ham over the potatoes, then pour half of the sauce on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with the sauce.
Step 6: Add Cheese (Optional)
If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it generously on top of the final layer of sauce. This will create a beautifully browned and gooey top layer.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 8: Let it Rest
Once out of the oven, allow the dish to rest for 10-15 minutes. This will help the layers set and make serving much easier.
Tips & Tricks on Making Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
- Uniform Slicing: Aim for even potato slices. A mandoline can be a lifesaver here.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for an extra flavor dimension.
- Cheese Variation: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.
- Meat Options: If you don’t have ham, consider using bacon or cooked chicken for protein.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish a day before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it the next day!
Nutrition Information
While comfort food can often be a guilty pleasure, I strive to provide a balanced take. Here’s the nutrition breakdown per serving (assuming 8 servings):
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
(Note: Values can change based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.)
How Do I Store This Dish?
This dish is perfect for leftovers! Once cooled, store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Just a quick tip: It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen!
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Scalloped Potatoes and Ham?
- Sweet Potatoes: Swap in sweet potatoes for a different flavor and sweetness.
- Cauliflower: A lower-carb alternative. Steam and puree it into the sauce for creaminess.
- Spinach or Kale: For added greens, toss in some wilted spinach or kale between layers.
- Plant-Based Cheese: If you want a dairy-free version, use a nut-based cheese alternative.
- Vegetable Broth: Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
Conclusion
Scalloped potatoes and ham is more than just a dish; it’s a heartwarming slice of comfort that brings people together. Whether it’s for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or just because it’s a Tuesday, this recipe hits all the right notes. Each layer is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something magical. So, roll up your sleeves and let the kitchen become your canvas. Get ready for a symphony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. You bring your appetite, and I’ll bring the recipe!
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Scalloped Potatoes and Ham – Delicious Meal Ideas
Description
I first stumbled upon scalloped potatoes and ham sort of by accident. One rainy day, I had some leftover ham from a family dinner, and a few Yukon gold potatoes were staring at me from the pantry. The idea hit me like a light bulb.
Just like that, I transformed the leftover meat into a creamy, cheesy dish. Fast forward a decade, and this recipe has become a staple in my home. Every time I make it, I think about the memories, the laughter, and the warmth this dish brings. If you're looking for an easy yet delightful meal that will satisfy both the hungry and the picky, you’ve come to the right place.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
-
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the dish cooks evenly and reaches that perfect, bubbly state.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
-
Wash and peel the Yukon gold potatoes. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, thinly slice them into ⅛-inch rounds. Try to keep them even for consistent cooking later. Set aside the sliced potatoes.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion
-
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling, add the finely diced onion. Sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
-
Once the onion is ready, it’s time to add the flour. Whisk it in, cooking for about a minute. Gradually add the whole milk and low-sodium chicken broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, thyme, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
Step 5: Layer the Dish
-
In a 9x13-inch baking dish, start layering. Place half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Sprinkle half of the diced ham over the potatoes, then pour half of the sauce on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with the sauce.
Step 6: Add Cheese (Optional)
-
If you're using cheese, sprinkle it generously on top of the final layer of sauce. This will create a beautifully browned and gooey top layer.
Step 7: Bake
-
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 8: Let it Rest
-
Once out of the oven, allow the dish to rest for 10-15 minutes. This will help the layers set and make serving much easier.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 400kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Saturated Fat 10g50%
- Sodium 600mg25%
- Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Protein 20g40%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Uniform Slicing: Aim for even potato slices. A mandoline can be a lifesaver here.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for an extra flavor dimension.
- Cheese Variation: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.
- Meat Options: If you don’t have ham, consider using bacon or cooked chicken for protein.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish a day before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it the next day!
