Easy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe: Deliciously Simple

Okay, gather ’round, friends! Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like a bubbling, cheesy pan of scalloped potatoes and ham. It’s total comfort food, am I right? And this… this is *the* easy scalloped potatoes and ham recipe you’ve been searching for. I’ve been making this for potlucks and family dinners for, oh gosh, probably 20 years now? It’s a total crowd-pleaser. Even my picky eaters gobble it up! Seriously, it’s so easy, and it always turns out perfect. What are we waiting for? Let’s dig in!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe

Okay, so why *will* you love this recipe? Let me tell you! It’s not just because it tastes like a warm hug, although, honestly, that’s a huge part of it. But here’s the real deal why this easy scalloped potatoes and ham recipe is about to become your new best friend:

• Super Simple Prep: Seriously, if I can do it with a toddler hanging off my leg, you can definitely do it!
• Comfort Food Central: That creamy, cheesy, potato-y goodness? Total bliss. Perfect for a chilly evening or when you just need a little something special.
• Pantry-Friendly: We’re talking basic ingredients here, folks. Nothing fancy, just good ol’ wholesome grub.
• Kid-Approved (and Adult-Approved!): This is a guaranteed hit with everyone. Say goodbye to dinner battles!
• Leftovers? Yes, Please!: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a big “if” in my house!), they are just as amazing the next day. Maybe even better!

Ingredients for This Easy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe

Alright, let’s talk ingredients! Nothing too crazy here, I promise. Just the usual suspects for a super comforting, easy scalloped potatoes and ham recipe. You’ll need:

• 6 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (more on that slicing later!)
• 1/2 cup chopped onion (yellow or white, whatever you’ve got!)
• 1/4 cup butter, melted (salted or unsalted, doesn’t matter much)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (this helps thicken things up!)
• 2 cups milk (I usually use 2%, but whole milk is great too!)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste – I’m a bit of a salt fiend!)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is always best!)
• 2 cups diced cooked ham (leftover holiday ham? Perfect!)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (because, cheese!)

How to Make This Easy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe

Okay, here comes the fun part – putting it all together! Don’t worry, this easy scalloped potatoes and ham recipe is seriously straightforward. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a warm, cheesy slice of heaven in no time!

1. Preheat like you mean it! Crank that oven up to 350°F (175°C). This is important, folks. A nice, even temperature is key for perfectly cooked potatoes.
2. Prep your pan! Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I usually use butter, but a little cooking spray works in a pinch. Trust me on this – you don’t want those potatoes sticking!
3. Mix it up! In a large bowl – and I mean *large*, you’ll need the room – combine your thinly sliced potatoes, chopped onion, melted butter, flour, milk, salt, and pepper. Get in there with your hands (clean ones, of course!) or a big spoon and make sure everything’s nicely coated. Don’t worry if it looks a little soupy; that’s how it’s supposed to be!
4. Ham it up! Now, gently stir in your diced cooked ham. You want to distribute it evenly throughout the potato mixture.
5. Pour it in! Carefully pour the whole shebang into your greased baking dish. Spread it out so it’s nice and even.
6. Bake it, baby! Pop that dish into the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes. Yes, a whole hour! But trust me, it’s worth the wait.
7. Cheese, please! After that hour, carefully take the dish out of the oven (oven mitts are your friend here!). Sprinkle that glorious shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. Get every nook and cranny!
8. Back in the oven! Put it back in the oven for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and bubbly. Ooh, that’s the good stuff!
9. Patience, young Padawan! This is the hardest part. Let the scalloped potatoes and ham stand for at least 10 minutes before serving. I know, it smells amazing, but trust me, letting it rest helps everything set up and makes it easier to serve. Plus, you won’t burn your mouth!

And there you have it! Your very own easy scalloped potatoes and ham recipe, ready to impress! Serve it up and watch everyone’s faces light up. You’re gonna be a star!

Tips for the Best Easy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe

Want to take your easy scalloped potatoes and ham recipe from “good” to “OMG, this is amazing!”? I’ve got you covered! Here are a few little tricks I’ve learned over the years:

• Slice those potatoes thin! A mandoline slicer is your best friend here, but a sharp knife works too. The thinner the slices, the faster and more evenly they’ll cook. Trust me, nobody wants crunchy potatoes in their scalloped dish.
• Don’t skimp on the cheese! I mean, come on, it’s cheese! And pre-shredded melts okay, but freshly grated cheddar? *That’s* the good stuff.
• Ham it up the *right* way! I usually use leftover ham from the holidays, but a good quality deli ham works great too. Just make sure it’s diced and not too thick.

Seriously, these little tips are game-changers. I remember the first time I used a mandoline for the potatoes… Wow! It made such a difference! So, give them a try and get ready for the best scalloped potatoes and ham of your life!

Variations for Your Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe

Okay, so you’ve nailed the basic easy scalloped potatoes and ham recipe, right? Awesome! Now, let’s get a little crazy and mix things up! The beauty of this dish is that it’s super versatile. Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Cheese, Glorious Cheese!: Cheddar’s classic, but why stop there? Gruyere adds a nutty flavor, Swiss is creamy and mild, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan can add a salty kick. Live a little!
• Spice It Up!: A pinch of nutmeg in the sauce? Yes, please! Or how about a dash of smoked paprika for a little smoky depth? Even a tiny bit of cayenne pepper can add a surprising warmth. Careful, though… go easy!
• Veggie Power!: Sautéed mushrooms would be amazing in this. Or maybe some peas or green beans for a little freshness and color? Get your veggies in, folks!
• Meatier Than Ever!: Not a ham fan? (Gasp!). No worries! Try using cooked bacon, sausage, or even leftover shredded chicken. The possibilities are endless!

Seriously, don’t be afraid to experiment! That’s how culinary masterpieces are born. Just promise me you’ll let me know what delicious creations you come up with!

Serving Suggestions for Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Alright, so you’ve got this amazing pan of easy scalloped potatoes and ham, all bubbly and delicious. What do you serve with it? Well, honestly, it’s pretty great on its own! But if you wanna round out the meal, here’s what I usually do:

• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. Something fresh to cut through the richness.
• Steamed green beans or asparagus. Easy and healthy!
• Crusty bread for soaking up all that creamy sauce! (My favorite part!)

Seriously, you can’t go wrong. Just keep it simple and let those scalloped potatoes and ham shine!

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Okay, so you managed *not* to eat the entire pan of easy scalloped potatoes and ham in one sitting? Congrats! You’ve got leftovers! Here’s how to keep ’em (and reheat ’em) the right way:

• Storing: Let the scalloped potatoes cool down a bit, then cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap (or transfer to an airtight container). It’ll keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.
• Reheating: The microwave is your friend here! Just nuke a slice for a minute or two until heated through. Or, for a crispier top, reheat in a 350°F oven until bubbly.

Trust me, cold scalloped potatoes are okay, but reheated? Oh, yeah. That’s the good stuff.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe

Got questions about my easy scalloped potatoes and ham recipe? I bet you do! Don’t worry, I’ve got answers to some of the most common things folks ask me. Let’s dive in!

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! While I love cheddar, this scalloped potatoes and ham recipe is super flexible. Try Gruyere for a nutty flavor, Monterey Jack for extra meltiness, or even a little bit of Parmesan for a salty kick. Just have fun with it!

Can I make this scalloped potatoes and ham ahead of time?

You sure can! Assemble the whole thing, but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add about 15 minutes to the cooking time. Easy peasy!

Can I freeze scalloped potatoes and ham?

Freezing this is do-able, but be aware that the texture of the potatoes might change a bit. They can get a little watery. But hey, if you’ve got a ton left, it’s better than wasting it, right? Thaw it completely before baking as directed.

Do I have to use ham?

Nope! If ham isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it out. Cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or even sautéed sausage would be delicious in this easy scalloped potatoes recipe. Get creative!

My scalloped potatoes are still a little crunchy. What did I do wrong?

Ah, that’s usually because the potato slices were too thick. Remember, thin is the name of the game! Also, make sure your oven temperature is accurate. An oven thermometer is your friend! Next time you’ll be able to avoid any mistakes when trying out this easy scalloped potatoes and ham recipe.

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Okay, quick disclaimer! The nutritional info here is just an estimate. It’ll change depending on the brands and specific ingredients you use. So, don’t take it as gospel, okay?

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