There’s something unbelievably comforting about a dish that combines layers of tender potatoes with gooey cheese and savory ham, all baked to golden perfection. When I first whipped up these Cheesy Ham Scalloped Potatoes on a chilly weekend, the rich aroma filled the kitchen and instantly lifted everyone’s spirits. What’s incredible is how simple ingredients come together to create a creamy, indulgent casserole that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re escaping the monotony of fast food or looking to impress at your next family dinner, this recipe hits all the right notes—easy to make, deeply satisfying, and endlessly versatile. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become my go-to comfort dish for any occasion.
Why choose Cheesy Ham Scalloped Potatoes?
Comfort at its finest: This dish brings tender potatoes, savory ham, and rich cheese together for a soul-warming meal. Simple preparation: It requires minimal steps and common ingredients, perfect for busy cooks. Versatile crowd-pleaser: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you crave homemade goodness. Time-saving bake: Once assembled, just pop it in the oven and relax while it melts to perfection. Irresistible textures: Creamy sauce and zingy cheese meld with hearty ham, creating a flavor-packed experience you’ll want again and again.
Cheesy Ham Scalloped Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potato Layers
- Russet potatoes – choose starchy potatoes for tender, fluffy layers that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Cooked ham – diced or shredded to add savory richness and meaty texture to this cheesy ham scalloped potatoes dish.
For the Creamy Sauce
- Butter – melts into a luscious base that helps thicken the sauce and adds buttery flavor.
- All-purpose flour – thickens the sauce to silky perfection without lumps.
- Milk – use whole milk for the creamiest consistency, but low-fat works in a pinch.
- Heavy cream – optional, for an extra indulgent, velvety touch.
For the Cheese Blend
- Sharp cheddar cheese – melts impressively and brings bold flavor to every bite.
- Gruyère cheese – adds a nutty complexity that elevates the casserole’s taste profile.
- Parmesan cheese – sprinkled on top for that irresistible golden crust and cheesy finish.
For Seasoning & Finishing Touches
- Garlic powder – enhances depth with subtle warmth throughout the layers.
- Salt and pepper – balance flavors perfectly; don’t skip this essential seasoning step.
- Fresh thyme or parsley – optional garnish for a fresh, bright note that contrasts the richness.
How to Make Cheesy Ham Scalloped Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the potatoes won’t stick and crisp up beautifully along the edges.
- Slice russet potatoes into 1/8-inch rounds (use a mandoline if possible). Aim for uniform thickness so each layer cooks evenly and tender.
- For the Sauce: Melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring until bubbly and fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Avoid browning the butter.
- Whisk in 1/4 cup flour until smooth, cooking for 1 minute. Slowly pour in 2 cups milk and 1/2 cup cream, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Season the sauce with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and a generous grind of black pepper. Stir in half of the cheddar and Gruyère until melted and silky.
- Layer half of the potato slices on the bottom of your dish, overlapping slightly. Sprinkle half the diced ham, then spoon over one-third of the cheese sauce.
- Repeat the layering: potatoes, ham, and sauce, ending with the remaining cheese blend on top. Press down gently so nothing shifts in the oven.
- Bake covered with foil for 30 minutes, uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and cheese is golden brown. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme leaves or parsley for a pop of color and freshness on each creamy, cheesy slice.
Optional: Sprinkle extra fresh parsley before serving for bright, herbal contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cheesy Ham Scalloped Potatoes Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful dish, adding your own twist to make it even more special.
- Veggie Boost: Add thinly sliced zucchini or spinach between layers for a pop of color and added nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the sauce for a flavorful heat that elevates every mouthful.
- Herbed Version: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary with each layer for an aromatic twist and to brighten the rich flavors.
- Creamy Spinach: Layer in sautéed spinach for a creamy texture and a delightful dose of greens, creating a more robust dish.
- Bacon Addition: Crisp up some bacon and sprinkle it between layers for a smoky, savory element that takes the taste to another level.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a new taste profile—this magic happens with every cheesy variation!
- Cauliflower Layer: Substitute some potato layers for thinly sliced cauliflower to reduce carbs without sacrificing that creamy goodness.
- Asian Flair: Swap cooked ham for teriyaki chicken and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a delightful fusion twist that surprises the palate.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Ham Scalloped Potatoes
- Uniform Slices: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice potatoes evenly at about 1/8 inch thick for consistent cooking and tender layers.
- Avoid Lumpy Sauce: Whisk flour into melted butter before adding milk slowly to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce without lumps.
- Balance Seasoning: Taste your cheese sauce before layering—adjust salt, pepper, and garlic powder to avoid bland or overpowering flavors.
- Layer Gently: Press layers down gently after assembly to prevent shifting but avoid compressing too much, so potatoes cook evenly and stay tender.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole rest 10 minutes after baking to allow sauce to thicken and flavors to meld beautifully.
- Cheese Choice Matters: Sharp cheddar and Gruyère offer bold, melty richness that makes this cheesy ham scalloped potatoes recipe irresistibly flavorful.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Ham Scalloped Potatoes are perfect for busy cooks who love the convenience of meal prep! You can slice the russet potatoes, layer them with ham, and prepare the creamy cheese sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake it straight from the fridge (adding a few extra minutes if necessary) and savor the deliciousness of a comforting, homemade meal without the last-minute fuss. With this prep, you’ll have a satisfying dish ready to serve on hectic weeknights, just as flavorful and creamy as if made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Ham Scalloped Potatoes
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain the creamy texture and rich flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its delightful taste.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through, ensuring the cheesy ham scalloped potatoes are nice and gooey again.
Refrigerate Before Baking: If you plan to freeze before cooking, layer the ingredients in a dish and freeze without baking. When ready to cook, simply bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
What to Serve with Cheesy Ham Scalloped Potatoes?
Elevate your meal with delightful sides that balance creaminess and add freshness to this comforting dish.
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Steamed Broccoli: Steamed until bright green, these tender florets offer a nutritious crunch that beautifully complements the rich cheese.
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Garlic Bread: Savor the warm, buttery flavors of garlic bread that add a delightful crunch as you soak up every delicious bite.
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Fresh Green Salad: A light mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber brings a refreshing contrast, keeping the meal light yet satisfying.
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Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized roasted carrots add a touch of natural sweetness to this savory dish while providing a pop of color.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw pairs perfectly, offering a refreshing bite that cuts through the richness of the scalloped potatoes.
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Chardonnay: Serve chilled Chardonnay alongside this cheesy ham scalloped potatoes dish; its crisp acidity creates a delightful balance to the flavors.
Easy Cheesy Ham Scalloped Potatoes That Melt in Your Mouth Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best potatoes for Cheesy Ham Scalloped Potatoes?
Russet potatoes are your best bet here—they’re starchy and perfect for absorbing that creamy, cheesy sauce. Look for firm potatoes without dark spots or green patches to ensure tender, fluffy layers.
What’s the best way to store leftover Cheesy Ham Scalloped Potatoes?
Absolutely keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay delicious for up to 3 to 4 days. Covering well is key to preserving that creamy texture and preventing the edges from drying out.
Can I freeze Cheesy Ham Scalloped Potatoes, and how should I do it?
Yes, you can! Here’s how I recommend freezing this dish step-by-step: First, let it cool completely after baking. Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It freezes well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and heated through—cheesy bliss restored!
What should I do if my scalloped potatoes turn out watery or too thick?
If your sauce feels watery, make sure you cooked the roux (butter and flour) long enough to activate its thickening power before adding milk. If it’s too thick, simply stir in a bit more milk or cream. Also, letting the casserole rest after baking helps the sauce set up perfectly and avoids runny results.
Are Cheesy Ham Scalloped Potatoes safe for pets or people with allergies?
While delicious for us, this dish isn’t pet-friendly due to salt, dairy, and ham content. For those with dairy or gluten allergies, consider using lactose-free milk and gluten-free flour alternatives. I always encourage adapting recipes to suit your family’s needs so everyone can share in the joy!
Easy Cheesy Ham Scalloped Potatoes That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Slice russet potatoes into 1/8-inch rounds for uniform thickness.
- Melt butter in a saucepan, stirring until bubbly, about 1–2 minutes.
- Whisk in flour, then slowly add milk and cream while whisking until thickened.
- Season sauce with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then stir in cheeses until melted.
- Layer half of potato slices, then half the ham, followed by a third of the cheese sauce.
- Repeat layering with remaining ingredients, ending with cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serve warm with garnish.