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Delicious Homemade Scalloped Potatoes with Ham: A Comforting Classic Recipe
When it comes to comforting and hearty meals, scalloped potatoes with ham never fail to hit the mark. This dish is a perfect blend of tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy sauce, making it an irresistible choice for a family dinner or a cozy gathering. In this post, we'll explore a delightful scalloped potatoes with ham recipe that's easy to make yet impressive to serve. It's a classic comfort food that's bound to become a staple in your household.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
The combination of creamy sauce, flavorful ham, and perfectly baked potatoes creates a dish that's both filling and satisfying. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted easily with different ingredients to suit your family's taste preferences. Plus, it's an excellent use for leftover ham, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.
Ingredients
To make this delicious recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- **6 cups of thinly sliced potatoes** (about 6 medium potatoes)
- **1 1/2 cups diced cooked ham**
- **1 onion, finely chopped**
- **2 cloves of garlic, minced**
- **3 tablespoons butter**
- **3 tablespoons all-purpose flour**
- **2 cups milk** (whole milk or half and half for a creamier sauce)
- **1 cup shredded cheddar cheese**
- **Salt and pepper to taste**
- **1/2 teaspoon dried thyme**
- **1/2 teaspoon paprika**
- **Fresh parsley for garnish**
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Slice the potatoes evenly; you can use a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness. This helps the potatoes cook evenly.
3. Dice the cooked ham into small, bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
1. In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3. Stir in the flour, creating a roux. Continue stirring for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the shredded cheddar cheese slowly, stirring until melted and smooth.
6. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Adjust the seasoning if necessary according to your taste preferences.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
1. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, followed by a layer of half the diced ham.
2. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the potato and ham layer.
3. Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, ham, and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Step 4: Bake the Dish
1. Place the prepared dish in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes.
2. After 60 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender when poked with a fork.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
1. Let the scalloped potatoes with ham cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
3. Serve hot alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes with Ham
- **Potato Selection**: Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold, as they break down nicely and become soft and tender when baked.
- **Cheese Choices**: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
- **Ham Choices**: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover holiday ham, but you can also substitute with bacon for a smoky twist.
- **Make Ahead**: Prepare the dish the night before and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator 30 minutes beforehand to allow it to reach room temperature, then bake as directed.
Conclusion
Scalloped potatoes with ham is a classic dish that embodies comfort and warmth. Whether you're preparing it for a special occasion or a simple family meal, it promises to enrich your dining experience with its rich flavors and creamy texture. This hearty dish is sure to bring joy to every bite, warming both heart and soul with its traditional taste.
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