Description

This creamy scalloped potatoes and ham casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender Yukon Gold potatoes with savory ham and sharp cheddar cheese in a rich, creamy sauce. Baked to golden perfection and topped with Parmesan cheese, it’s a hearty dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Dairy and Oils

4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free version)
2 cups Whole Milk (Use low-fat or almond milk for a lighter version)
2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese
1/2 cup Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional but recommended)

Produce

1 medium Onion (Provides aromatic depth; substitute with shallots or leeks)
2 cloves Garlic (Use garlic powder if fresh is not available)
4 cups Yukon Gold Potatoes (Thinly sliced)
1/4 cup Fresh Herbs (Chives, Thyme, or Parsley) (Optional for garnish)

Pantry

2 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth (Keeps the dish gluten-free)
1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Adjust according to taste)
1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (Use gluten-free flour as an alternative)

Protein

2 cups Diced Cooked Ham (Can be replaced with cooked bacon or omitted for a vegetarian option)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the scalloped potatoes and ham.
Sauté Aromatics: Melt the unsalted butter in a medium pot over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent to develop sweetness. Stir in the crushed garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Prepare Sauce: Pour in the whole milk and low sodium chicken broth to the pot with onions and garlic. Season with kosher salt and ground black pepper. Stir and then set this creamy mixture aside.
Prepare Potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the Yukon Gold potatoes. Toss the slices lightly with all-purpose flour to coat evenly; this helps thicken the sauce during baking.
Assemble Casserole: In a greased casserole dish, arrange a layer of potato slices. Pour some of the milk and broth mixture over them, then sprinkle diced ham and sharp cheddar cheese evenly. Repeat layering until all ingredients are used, ending with a cheese layer.
Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes to cook the potatoes through.
Remove Foil and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 25 minutes, allowing the top to start browning.
Add Parmesan and Broil: Sprinkle the finely grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top of the casserole. Place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes until the top turns golden brown and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Rest Before Serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 20-25 minutes. This resting time helps the dish set for easier serving and enhances flavor melding.
Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs such as chives, thyme, or parsley before serving to add a fresh note and color.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil and use almond milk instead of whole milk.
If fresh garlic is not available, garlic powder can be used but reduce quantity to prevent overpowering.
Use gluten-free flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
Vegetarian option: omit ham and add cooked mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.
Allowing the casserole to rest before serving helps it set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
Watch the casserole closely when broiling to avoid burning the cheese topping.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, ham casserole, creamy potatoes, comfort food, baked potatoes, casserole, cheddar cheese, homemade scalloped potatoes