There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when simple ingredients come together in the oven, transforming into something truly special. This Old Fashioned Scalloped Potatoes and Ham recipe embodies that magic perfectly. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a nostalgic journey back to simpler times. The creamy, cheesy sauce, the tender potatoes, and the savory ham create a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to slow down, savor each bite, and share the moment with loved ones.

For me, baking and cooking are about creating those little moments of peace and joy. This recipe is a testament to that belief. It’s easy to make, requires minimal effort, and the result is a dish that nourishes both the body and the soul. I hope this recipe brings as much warmth and comfort to your table as it has to mine.

Why You’ll Love This Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe

This isn’t just another recipe; it’s a heartfelt invitation to create something truly special. Here’s why this Old Fashioned Scalloped Potatoes and Ham will become a family favorite:

Simple Comfort: This is the definition of comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s a dish that soothes the soul.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves scalloped potatoes and ham! It’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
Versatile: Customize it to your liking! Add different cheeses, vegetables, or seasonings to create your own unique version.
Perfect for Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), they taste even better the next day.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting masterpiece:

4 russet potatoes—medium ((peeled and sliced thin))
1 small onion – chopped
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
3 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheese (mild or sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, others)
¾ pound turkey ham — diced or cut into small bite-size pieces ((about 3 cups; a bit more or less is fine))

How to Make Old Fashioned Scalloped Potatoes and Ham: Step-by-Step

Let’s walk through the process together. Each step is simple, and the result is pure comfort food.

Preheat the oven to 350° convection or 375° conventional. Getting the oven ready is the first step!
Scrub, peel, and slice 4 medium russet potatoes (1½ to 2 pounds), about ⅜ inch thick. A mandolin is recommended if you have one. If you use a mandolin, please follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions. Slicing the potatoes thinly ensures they cook evenly.
Chop 1 small onion. Chop or slice your turkey ham into bite-size pieces. Preparing the ingredients ahead of time makes the process smoother.
Over medium-high heat, in a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter and add the onion. Cook until clearing—about 3–4 minutes. Cooking the onion in butter adds a beautiful depth of flavor to the sauce.
Sprinkle in 4 tablespoons of flour and mix well. Continue to cook and whisk for about 2 minutes until light browning. This creates the roux, which will thicken the sauce. This is a crucial step to get the right consistency for the sauce.
Add 3 cups of milk slowly while continuing to whisk. Whisk and cook until thickening well—about 3–4 minutes. Mix in 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Whisking constantly prevents lumps from forming.
Prep a 9 by 13 inch casserole dish with a coat of butter. Buttering the dish prevents the casserole from sticking.
Add about ⅓ of the sliced potatoes, top with ⅓ of the turkey ham, ½ cup of shredded cheese, and ⅓ of the sauce. Repeat twice, but with the top layer, add the cheese last and double to a full cup. Layering ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
Cover with aluminum foil. Covering the dish helps the potatoes cook evenly and prevents the cheese from burning.
Bake 45–90 minutes covered, then 20–25 minutes uncovered until golden and bubbling. Covered time will vary depending on your desired texture. Allow to sit for about 10 minutes before serving—do not skip this step. Letting it rest allows the sauce to thicken further.

Pro Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your scalloped potatoes and ham are absolutely perfect:

Use a Mandolin: A mandolin ensures even slicing, which is crucial for even cooking.
Don’t Overcook the Roux: Cooking the roux too long can result in a bitter taste.
Use Good Quality Cheese: The cheese is a key component, so use a good quality cheddar or your favorite cheese blend.
Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.
Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the potatoes and sauce generously with salt and pepper.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe, it’s helpful to know what to watch out for:

Unevenly Sliced Potatoes: This can result in some potatoes being undercooked while others are overcooked.
Lumpy Sauce: Whisk the milk into the roux slowly and constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Not Enough Cheese: Can there ever be too much cheese? Make sure you have enough to create a creamy, cheesy sauce.
Skipping the Resting Period: This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.
Overbaking: Overbaking can dry out the casserole. Check it regularly and adjust the baking time as needed.

Variations to Try

Here are a few ideas to customize this recipe to your liking:

Add Vegetables: Add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrients.
Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Swiss, or Pepper Jack.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
Make it Vegetarian: Omit the ham and add extra vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley add a wonderful aroma and flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Here’s how to store and reheat leftovers:

Storage: Store leftover scalloped potatoes and ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about making scalloped potatoes and ham:

Can I use a different type of potato? Yes, Yukon gold potatoes or red potatoes also work well in this recipe.
Can I use a different type of ham? Yes, you can use any type of ham you like, such as smoked ham, honey ham, or even leftover holiday ham.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze this casserole? It is not recommended to freeze scalloped potatoes and ham, as the texture of the potatoes and sauce may change upon thawing.
How do I prevent the potatoes from browning before they are cooked? Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from browning while you prepare the other ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Scalloped potatoes and ham is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to round out your meal:

Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the casserole.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add a healthy and flavorful side dish.
Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Dessert: A light dessert like fruit salad or a simple cobbler is the perfect ending to this comforting meal.

I hope this Old Fashioned Scalloped Potatoes and Ham recipe brings you as much joy and comfort as it brings me. It’s a simple dish, but it’s filled with love and warmth. Happy baking!