The Pioneer Woman’s Scalloped Potatoes With Ham Recipe

The Pioneer Woman’s Scalloped Potatoes With Ham: A Soulful Comfort

There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when simple ingredients come together to create something truly comforting. This recipe for The Pioneer Woman’s Scalloped Potatoes with Ham embodies that magic perfectly. It’s a dish that speaks of warmth, family gatherings, and the simple pleasure of a home-cooked meal. Imagine the creamy, cheesy goodness enveloping tender slices of potato, punctuated by the savory notes of ham. It’s more than just food; it’s a hug on a plate.

Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman herself, has a knack for creating recipes that are both approachable and deeply satisfying. This scalloped potatoes with ham recipe is no exception. It’s a testament to her down-to-earth style and her understanding of what makes a meal truly special. It’s a dish that feels like it has been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own touch of love and care.

Why You’ll Love This Pioneer Woman Scalloped Potatoes With Ham Recipe

What makes this recipe so irresistible? Let me count the ways:

• Unparalleled Comfort: This dish is the epitome of comfort food. The creamy sauce, tender potatoes, and savory ham create a symphony of textures and flavors that soothe the soul.
• Simple Elegance: Despite its humble ingredients, this scalloped potatoes with ham recipe has an undeniable elegance. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.
• Easy to Customize: Want to add a little something extra? Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, herbs, or even vegetables. The possibilities are endless!
• Perfect for Leftovers: Have leftover ham from a holiday feast? This recipe is the perfect way to use it up in a delicious and satisfying way.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is always a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s a guaranteed way to bring smiles to the table.

Ingredients for Pioneer Woman’s Scalloped Potatoes With Ham

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

• 6 cups sliced potatoes (thinly sliced to 1/8-inch thick)
• 2 cups turkey ham (any cooked turkey ham or Easter turkey ham leftovers)
• salt and pepper (to taste)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a combination of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, plus more for garnish)
• 3 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried chives (plus more for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus more for garnish)

How to Make Pioneer Woman’s Scalloped Potatoes With Ham: A Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s walk through the process together, step by step:

1. Prepare the Potatoes and Ham: Rinse the potatoes, peel them if desired, and slice them thinly (approximately 1/8-inch thick) using a mandolin slicer. Toss the potatoes with the diced cooked turkey ham and season them with salt and pepper, mixing them well.
2. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce: Melt the butter in a large saucepan set over medium heat. Gradually add the flour and mix until smooth. Whisk in the shredded cheese. Add the milk gradually, while whisking, and bring it to a boil. Season with salt, pepper, and the dried herbs. Stir and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Turn off the heat. This is the heart of the dish, the rich, creamy sauce that brings everything together.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Prepare a 9 x 13-inch baking dish by greasing it with butter. Spread half of the potato and turkey ham mixture into the baking dish in an even layer. Add half of the sauce on top. Add the remaining potato mixture to the baking dish in an even layer and pour the remaining sauce over it, making sure the whole surface is covered.
4. Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake for almost 70 minutes or until the potatoes are soft. They will be done when you can pierce them easily with a fork.
5. Add the Finishing Touches: Remove the potatoes from the oven, remove the foil, top with a handful of shredded cheese and a pinch of dried herbs, and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, uncovered, until brown and bubbling. This final step is what makes the dish truly special, creating a golden, cheesy crust that is simply irresistible.

Pro Tips for the Best Scalloped Potatoes With Ham

To ensure your scalloped potatoes are a resounding success, keep these pro tips in mind:

• Potato Perfection: For the best texture, use Yukon Gold potatoes. Their creamy, slightly waxy texture holds up beautifully during baking. Russet potatoes can also be used, but they may become a bit softer. The potatoes are a key component of this dish.
• Thinly Slice the Potatoes: This is crucial for even cooking. A mandoline slicer is your best friend for achieving uniform, thin slices.
• Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Cook the sauce just until it thickens slightly. Overcooking can result in a grainy texture.
• Cheese, Please!: Use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for the perfect balance of flavor and meltiness.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the most experienced cooks can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Unevenly Sliced Potatoes: This can lead to some potatoes being undercooked while others are overcooked.
• Too Much Sauce: Using too much sauce can make the scalloped potatoes soggy.
• Not Enough Sauce: Conversely, not enough sauce can result in dry, bland potatoes.
• Overbaking: Overbaking can dry out the potatoes and make the sauce separate.
• Using Cold Milk: Cold milk can cause the sauce to seize up. Use room-temperature milk for best results.

Scalloped Potatoes With Ham Variations

Want to put your own spin on this classic dish? Here are a few variations to try:

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate sliced onions, garlic, or even mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyere, Swiss, or provolone.
• Creamy Dreamy: Substitute some of the milk with heavy cream for an extra-rich and decadent sauce.
• Crusty Topping: Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crunchy topping.

How to Store and Reheat Scalloped Potatoes With Ham

Leftover scalloped potatoes with ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the scalloped potatoes with ham ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Can I freeze this dish? While you can freeze scalloped potatoes with ham, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. The sauce may become a bit grainy.
• Can I use a different type of ham? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of ham, such as smoked ham, honey ham, or even prosciutto.
• Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, simply omit the ham for a delicious vegetarian version. You can add other vegetables, such as broccoli or cauliflower, to make it more substantial.
• What kind of cheese is best? Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can also use other cheeses, such as Gruyere, Swiss, or mozzarella.

Serving Suggestions

Scalloped potatoes with ham are a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• As a Main Course: Serve with a side salad and some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
• As a Side Dish: Pair with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon.
• For a Holiday Feast: Include it as part of your holiday spread alongside other traditional dishes.
• Brunch Time: Serve a smaller portion as part of a brunch buffet.
• Comfort Food Night: Enjoy a cozy night in with a bowl of scalloped potatoes and ham and a good movie.

This Pioneer Woman scalloped potatoes with ham recipe is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to slow down, connect with your loved ones, and savor the simple pleasures of life. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and let the magic begin. The woman’s scalloped potatoes will be a hit!