Yummy Cheese and Ham Scallop Potatoes

A Comfort Food Classic: My Creamy Ham and Cheese Scalloped Potatoes

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. But sometimes, the simplest recipes offer the greatest rewards. That's how I discovered this creamy ham and cheese scalloped potato recipe – a true comfort food classic that's surprisingly easy to make, even on a weeknight.

I stumbled upon this recipe while browsing online, combining elements from two different recipes to create something truly unique. The original recipes were already good, but I felt they lacked a certain something. The addition of ham? pure genius! It adds a salty, savory depth that elevates the entire dish. The result is a decadent, comforting meal that's perfect for a cozy night in or a casual family gathering. The creamy texture, the perfectly cooked potatoes, the delightful blend of ham and cheese – every bite is a small piece of heaven.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are readily available, and the process is straightforward, even for novice cooks. It's the kind of recipe you can easily customize to your preferences. Want to add some different herbs? Go for it! Feeling adventurous? Try swapping the cheddar for a different type of cheese. The possibilities are endless!

Preparing the Potatoes: The secret to perfectly creamy scalloped potatoes lies in the preparation of the potatoes themselves. I've found that thinly slicing the potatoes ensures even cooking and a tender texture. Boiling them slightly beforehand helps to speed up the baking process and creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Don't overcook them though – you want them slightly softened, not mushy, as they'll continue to cook in the oven.

The Creamy Sauce: The creamy sauce is the heart and soul of this dish. It's a simple roux, thickened with flour and enriched with milk. I use 2% milk for a lighter version, but you could easily use whole milk for a richer, creamier experience. The addition of herbs and seasonings adds complexity and warmth, making the sauce truly memorable.

Layering for Perfection: Layering is key to achieving that visually appealing and satisfyingly textural dish. I like to start with a layer of potatoes, followed by a layer of onions (for a subtle sweetness), then a layer of ham (for savory depth), a sprinkling of the flour mixture (for extra thickening and flavor), and finally, a generous helping of cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a top layer of cheese that will beautifully brown in the oven.

Baking to Golden Perfection: Baking the casserole is the final step, the moment when all the flavors come together. The oven transforms the humble ingredients into a golden-brown masterpiece. The cheese melts and bubbles, forming a crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender potatoes underneath. The aromas wafting from the oven will make your mouth water!

This scalloped potato recipe isn’t just a meal; it's an experience. It's about creating something delicious and comforting, a moment of pure indulgence. It's about sharing a meal with loved ones, or simply enjoying a well-deserved treat after a long day. So, next time you're looking for a simple yet satisfying dinner, give this creamy ham and cheese scalloped potato recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!

I often serve this with a simple green salad, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the potatoes. It’s a complete meal that leaves you feeling satisfied without feeling overly full. It’s adaptable too – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a more formal occasion with a little extra presentation.

This recipe reminds me of my grandmother's cooking. She had a way of making simple meals feel extraordinary. This recipe captures that same essence – simplicity, comfort, and pure deliciousness. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let the culinary magic begin! You'll discover that even the simplest recipes can bring immense joy and satisfaction, both to the cook and to those who enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Step-by-step

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Grease a 1 1/2 - 2 quart casserole dish with non-stick spray or butter.
• Cook potatoes until slightly softened (about 8 minutes), then drain well. They will finish cooking in the oven.
• While potatoes are cooking, chop onion and set aside.
• Mix together 2 tablespoons flour, 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard, 1 1/2 teaspoons dried parsley, and 1/4 teaspoon seasoning blend (I used garlic herb) in a small bowl.
• In a microwave-safe bowl or small pan, whisk together 1 1/2 cups milk and the remaining 2 1/2 tablespoons of flour and seasoning blend, and heat until just warm.
• Layer in casserole dish: potatoes, onion, ham, flour mixture, and cheese, ending with cheese on top.
• Pour warmed milk mixture over the top.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until cheese is brown and potatoes are bubbly.
• Let sit 5-10 minutes before serving.