Scalloped Potatoes with Ham

Scalloped Potatoes with Ham is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. This hearty dish features layers of tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy cheese sauce baked to golden perfection. Whether you're planning a family dinner, a potluck, or a holiday feast, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and full of rich, satisfying flavors. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it's a go-to dish that brings warmth and joy to every table.

Ingredients

• • 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)

• • 2 cups diced ham

• • 1 cup diced yellow onion (about 1 medium onion)

• • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (about 1/4 cup)

• • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (about 1/4 cup)

• • 2 1/2 cups whole milk

• • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Thinly slice the potatoes and dice the onion and ham.

Make the Sauce

• • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

• • Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden.

• • Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form.

• • Cook the sauce for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens.

• • Stir in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and mix in 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese until smooth.

Assemble the Dish

• • Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.

• • Top with half of the diced ham and half of the diced onion.

• • Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the layer.

• • Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, ham, onion, and sauce.

Add Cheese and Bake

• • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.

• • Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.

Bake

• • Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.

• • Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve
Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy!