- Shredded Cheese (2 cups, cheddar or mozzarella work well)
- Sliced Ham (8 oz)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Butter (2 tbsp)
- All-purpose Flour (2 tbsp) - for thickening
- Onion Powder (1 tsp) - adds a subtle onion flavor without the chunks
- Paprika (1/2 tsp) - gives it that classic, slightly spicy kick
Incorporate these ingredients into your recipe to create a delicious and comforting cheese and ham scalloped potatoes dish. Use SEO-friendly formatting to help improve search engine rankings for this popular recipe.
Steps
### Easy Cheese and Ham Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Looking to impress your guests or treat yourself to a comforting dish? Try this simple yet delicious cheese and ham scalloped potatoes recipe. This classic comfort food is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special gatherings.
#### Ingredients:
- 6 medium-sized russet potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
- 8 ounces (225g) of cooked ham, diced into small pieces
- 1 cup (240ml) milk
- 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
#### Equipment:
- Large baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
**1. Prepare the Potatoes:**
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife.
**2. Cook the Ham:**
- If you’re using fresh ham, cook it until fully heated through and then let it cool before chopping into small pieces.
- Alternatively, if you have leftover cooked ham, simply dice it.
**3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:**
- In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of milk with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until well combined.
- Gradually add in 1/2 cup of sour cream and stir until smooth.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture and blend until fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
**4. Layering the Dish:**
- In a large baking dish, start by layering the sliced potatoes at the bottom.
- Spread half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, then add a layer of ham.
- Repeat this process once more, ending with a layer of cheese sauce on top.
**5. Bake:**
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
**6. Serve:**
- Allow the scalloped potatoes to rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
### Tips for Success:
- **Use Russet Potatoes:** These potatoes are ideal because of their fluffy texture when cooked.
- **Prep Ahead:** If you're short on time, you can prep the layers and refrigerate them overnight. Just bring to room temperature before baking.
- **Adjust Seasoning:** Taste as you go; the saltiness from the ham might require less additional seasoning.
#### Keywords:
- Easy cheese and ham scalloped potatoes
- Comfort food recipes
- Potatoes with cheese
- Ham and cheese casserole
This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a hit at any gathering. Enjoy your delicious homemade cheese and ham scalloped potatoes!