The Old Fashioned Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe is a comforting classic that never goes out of style.
This creamy and cheesy dish is made with layers of tender potatoes, savory ham and a rich white sauce baked to golden perfection.
It’s the perfect way to use leftover ham and makes a hearty meal for family dinners or holidays.
This cozy casserole is loved for its simple ingredients and warm flavor. Every bite is creamy, cheesy, and full of nostalgia — just like grandma used to make!
When I First Tried Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe
The first time I had this dish was at my grandma’s kitchen table. The smell of baking cheese and ham filled the whole house.
I remember scooping a big spoonful from the bubbling dish — creamy sauce, soft potatoes, and bits of ham in every bite. Since then, it’s been one of my favorite comfort foods to share with my family.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Old Fashioned Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
- Servings: 6–8
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr 15 mins
- Total Time: 1 hr 35 mins
- Course: Main Course / Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 420 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Large saucepan
- Baking dish (9×13-inch)
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients You Need
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 5 medium)
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp paprika for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish.
2. Make the Cream Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
3. Season the Sauce
Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Layer the Ingredients
In your baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, half of the ham, and half of the onions. Pour half of the sauce over them. Repeat the layers with the rest of the potatoes, ham, and sauce.
5. Add Cheese and Bake
Top with the remaining cheese and sprinkle with paprika. Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Then uncover and bake for 15 more minutes until golden and bubbly.
6. Rest Before Serving
Let the dish sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
Recipe Tips
- Slice potatoes evenly for even cooking.
- Use leftover baked ham for rich flavor.
- Don’t rush the sauce — let it thicken nicely.
- Add a layer of cheese between potato layers for extra creaminess.
- Let it rest before serving for a perfect texture.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 22g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Sodium | 980mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with green beans, roasted carrots, or a fresh salad.
- Perfect as a side for Easter, Christmas, or Sunday dinners.
- Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or microwave individual portions.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
FAQs about Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
2. Can I use half-and-half instead of milk?
Yes, it makes the sauce even richer and creamier.
3. What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but you can also mix in Swiss or Gruyère.
4. Can I use raw ham?
No, the ham should be pre-cooked before adding it to the casserole.
5. How do I know it’s done?
The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the top should be golden brown.
Conclusion
This Old Fashioned Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe is the ultimate comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and satisfying.
It’s simple to make and perfect for feeding a hungry family. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this dish brings warmth and old-fashioned goodness to every bite. Try it once and it’ll become a family favorite forever!
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Old Fashioned Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes about 5 medium
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk whole milk preferred
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder optional
- 1/4 tsp paprika for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish.
Make the Cream Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Season the Sauce
- Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
Layer the Ingredients
- In your baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, half of the ham, and half of the onions. Pour half of the sauce over them. Repeat the layers with the rest of the potatoes, ham, and sauce.
Add Cheese and Bake
- Top with the remaining cheese and sprinkle with paprika. Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Then uncover and bake for 15 more minutes until golden and bubbly.
Rest Before Serving
- Let the dish sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
Notes
- Slice potatoes evenly for even cooking.
- Use leftover baked ham for rich flavor.
- Don’t rush the sauce — let it thicken nicely.
- Add a layer of cheese between potato layers for extra creaminess.
- Let it rest before serving for a perfect texture.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.
