Decadent Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Your Comfort Food Bliss

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

When the chill of autumn sets in and the leaves start to crunch beneath my feet, I find myself reaching for hearty comfort food that warms both the belly and the soul. Scalloped Potatoes and Ham has become my go-to dish, seamlessly blending creamy layers of buttery potatoes with savory bites of ham. The scent of melting cheese and thyme wafts through the kitchen, inviting family and friends to gather around the table.

This recipe is more than just a meal; it s a memory-maker a delicious answer to the monotonous fast-food routine. I remember the first time I served this dish at a potluck, and it vanished in moments! With just 25 minutes of prep, it transforms into a magical casserole that practically sings of simplicity and flavor. Plus, layering the ingredients is so satisfying that you might find yourself smiling with each potato slice. So grab your apron, and let s dive into the heartwarming world of Scalloped Potatoes and Ham, perfect for any occasion.

Why Are Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Irresistible?

Comforting, Heartwarming Meal: This Scalloped Potatoes and Ham dish combines the rich creaminess of potatoes with the savory goodness of ham, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, this dish never fails to impress and will quickly become the star of your table.
Simple Preparation: With only 25 minutes of prep time, you can serve a gourmet-like dish without the fuss.
Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or cheese for added flavor, ensuring everyone s taste buds are satisfied.
Hearty and Filling: This meal is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrition, making it a wholesome choice for both adults and kids to enjoy.
Timeless Favorite: It s a recipe that brings nostalgia and warmth, connecting generations and creating memories around the dinner table.

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Ingredients

For the Creamy Sauce
Butter Adds richness and flavor, forming the base of your creamy sauce.
Small onion, diced Provides a subtle sweetness that balances the creaminess of the potatoes.
All-purpose flour Helps thicken the sauce, ensuring a delightful texture in every bite.
Dried thyme leaves Introduces an herby note that elevates the overall flavor profile of the Scalloped Potatoes and Ham.
Milk Creates a velvety sauce, blending beautifully with the other ingredients.
Chicken broth Enhances flavor depth, making the sauce even more savory.
Salt and black pepper Essential for seasoning, adjusting to taste for ideal flavor.

For the Potatoes and Ham
Yukon gold potatoes, sliced thinly Contributes a creamy texture and buttery flavor, ideal for this dish.
Diced cooked ham Adds heartiness and protein, making this dish satisfying and filling.

Optional Topping
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese Gives a gooey, cheesy layer that makes the dish even more irresistible, if you choose to add it!

How to Make Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

1. Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 °F. This ensures your dish bakes evenly and gets that perfect golden color. Grease a 9×13 baking pan to prevent sticking, making cleanup a breeze!
2. Sauté onion: Cook the diced onion and butter over medium-low heat until the onion becomes tender and translucent. This should take about 5 minutes, filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma.
3. Prepare the sauce: Add thyme and flour to the softened onions, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes. Gradually add in milk, whisking continuously to maintain a smooth texture as the sauce thickens, then stir in chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, letting it bubble for 1 minute to concentrate the flavors.
4. Layer ingredients: In your prepared baking pan, start layering: Place of the thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom, followed by of the diced ham and of the creamy sauce. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a generous layer of sauce on top.
5. Bake to perfection: Cover the pan with foil and bake for 50 minutes. After that, uncover and bake for an additional 25 to 35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. If you re using cheese, sprinkle it on top during the last 15 minutes of baking for that gooey finish.
6. Cool and serve: Once the dish is baked, allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes. This cooling time lets the sauce thicken up a bit more, making it easier to serve. Garnish your Scalloped Potatoes and Ham with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color!

Optional: A sprinkle of smoked paprika can elevate the flavor even further!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Scalloped Potatoes and Ham are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy sauce and layer the potatoes with ham up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the layering step, then cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. To ensure the flavors meld beautifully, allow the dish to rest in the fridge overnight. When you re ready to serve, remove it from the fridge, and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This way, you ll achieve restaurant-quality results with minimal effort on busy weeknights! Just bake as instructed, and enjoy the same delicious flavors of freshly made Scalloped Potatoes and Ham.

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Variations

Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own by trying these delightful twists!

• Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk, and use vegan butter for a creamy, plant-based version.
• Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach or roasted broccoli between the layers to sneak in extra greens while enhancing flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an unexpected but delicious heat.
• Smoky Flavor: Use smoked ham instead of regular cooked ham for a rich, smoky profile that really elevates the dish.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley; toss them into the sauce for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Cheesy Delight: Mix different cheeses, like mozzarella or gruyère, for an incredibly gooey and flavorful topping during the last 15 minutes of baking.
• Potato Varieties: Swap out some Yukon gold for red potatoes or sweet potatoes for a colorful and nutritious twist!
• Crispy Topping: Finish with a layer of crushed breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil on top for an irresistible crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers.

What to Serve with Scalloped Potatoes and Ham?

When you re eager to build a heartwarming meal that delights the senses, look no further than these comforting pairings.

• Garlic Bread: This crispy, buttery delight enhances the meal with its crunch and aromatic flavor, perfect for mopping up that creamy sauce.
• Steamed Broccoli: A light, fresh contrast to the richness of the scalloped potatoes, adding a pop of color and nutritious benefits to your plate.
• Mixed Green Salad: Crisp greens tossed in a tangy vinaigrette brighten the palette, providing a refreshing crunch alongside the comforting layers of ham and potatoes.
• Baked Apples: For dessert, these sweet, spiced treats echo the warming flavors of your main dish, wrapping up the meal with a touch of nostalgic sweetness.
• Sweet Tea: This classic drink pairs beautifully, offering a refreshing, slightly sweet balance to the savory flavors of your scalloped potatoes.
• Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted to perfection, these give a delightful crunch and a slight bitterness that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy dish.

  Each of these pairings adds something special to your table, creating a complete and unforgettable dining experience.

How to Store and Freeze Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Room Temperature: Enjoy your Scalloped Potatoes and Ham immediately after baking for the best flavor and texture, but if left out, consume within 2 hours.

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure that it s cooled completely before sealing, as this helps retain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350 °F until heated through about 20-25 minutes or use the microwave for quicker reheating, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.

Expert Tips for Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

• Potato Choice: Use Yukon gold potatoes for their creamy texture; avoid watery varieties like russets which can make the dish too soupy.
• Seasoning Layers: Remember to season each layer with salt and pepper to develop deep flavors throughout the dish; neglecting this may yield bland bites.
• Gradual Milk Addition: Always add milk gradually when preparing the sauce, whisking well to avoid lumps; this will ensure a smooth, creamy consistency in your Scalloped Potatoes and Ham.
• Cheese Timing: If you re adding cheese, sprinkle it on in the last 15 minutes of baking; this allows it to melt beautifully without burning.
• Cooling Time: Allow the dish to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the sauce thicken, making it easier to slice and serve.
• Variations: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables, like spinach or broccoli, to customize and sneak in some extra nutrition.

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using Yukon gold potatoes for their creamy texture and buttery flavor. These potatoes hold their shape well during baking, unlike watery varieties like russets, which could turn your dish into a mushy mess.

How long can I store leftover Scalloped Potatoes and Ham in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish is completely cooled before sealing to keep it as fresh as possible!

Can I freeze Scalloped Potatoes and Ham?
Very! To freeze, portion the dish into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label with the date so you can keep track of freshness!

What s the best way to reheat frozen Scalloped Potatoes and Ham?
Reheating frozen portions is a breeze! Thaw them in the fridge overnight. Then, preheat your oven to 350 °F, cover the dish with foil, and heat through for about 20-25 minutes. If you re in a hurry, the microwave works too just add a splash of milk if it seems dry to keep it creamy!

How can I avoid a soup-like consistency in my Scalloped Potatoes and Ham?
To prevent excessive moisture, be sure to use starchy Yukon gold potatoes rather than watery ones like russets, and always layer your ingredients evenly. Proper seasoning in each layer helps a lot too, as it develops deeper flavors throughout the dish. Lastly, follow the gradual milk addition when making your sauce to ensure a smooth consistency!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! The dish contains dairy and gluten from the milk and flour, so it s not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten allergies. Additionally, if you re concerned about added sodium, consider using low-sodium chicken broth and adjusting the salt to your taste. Always make sure any other ingredients added, like cheese or additional vegetables, fit your dietary needs!