Creamy Scalloped Potatoes with Ham

By:

February 8, 2026

Creamy scalloped potatoes layered with ham for a savory side dish.

There’s something undeniably comforting about layers of creamy, cheesy potatoes interspersed with tender ham. This dish, often gracing the tables of family gatherings and cozy dinners, is as rich in flavor as it is in tradition. I still remember the first time I tasted creamy scalloped potatoes with ham at my grandmother’s holiday feast, and since then, it has become a staple in my own kitchen. This recipe brings that nostalgia to life while being simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Imagine a dish that not only warms your soul but also brings smiles around the table. Creamy Scalloped Potatoes with Ham is exactly that. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of creamy potatoes, savory ham, and melty cheese, all baked to perfection. It’s an excellent choice for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet easy to prepare.

“This dish is a game-changer for family dinners! Every bite feels like a warm hug.” — A recent user review

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.

How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes with Ham

Creating this delightful dish requires just a few steps. First, you’ll layer the ingredients, then bake them to perfection. Here’s a concise overview of how it all comes together:

Prepare the creamy sauce.
Layer the potatoes, ham, and cheese.
Bake until golden and bubbly.

Ingredients

To whip up this delicious comfort food, you will need the following:

2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced (about 225g)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 100g)
½ cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese (about 50g)
1 ½ cups heavy cream (360ml)
½ cup whole milk (120ml)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (45g)
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ small onion, finely chopped (optional)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (16g)
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Chopped parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)

Substitutions: For a lighter version, you can substitute half the heavy cream with additional milk or use low-fat cheese. Don’t have ham? Cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms can also be delicious alternatives.

Directions to Follow

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps for a dish that will impress:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened, but not browned.
Sprinkle the flour over the butter mixture and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste and start thickening the sauce.
Slowly add the heavy cream and milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom, overlapping slightly. Sprinkle a portion of diced ham and some shredded cheese over the potatoes. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
Pour the cream sauce evenly over the layers, ensuring it seeps into all the crevices.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling. A knife inserted in the center should slide in easily.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to help the sauce thicken and make slicing easier.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Creamy Scalloped Potatoes with Ham is wonderfully versatile. Serve it as a main dish alongside a crisp green salad or buttery garlic bread. For a complete meal, pair it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, both of which offer a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.

To elevate the presentation, you can garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme just before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover scalloped potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, simply place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

For longer storage, this dish also freezes well. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months frozen. To reheat from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Slice Uniformly: Ensure the potato slices are even for consistent cooking.
Mind the Thickness: If you prefer a creamier texture, use a bit more cream or cheese.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the dish a day in advance and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

Creative Twists

Feel free to experiment with flavors! Consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients. For a different cheese profile, try swapping the cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Additionally, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could sprinkle some crispy bacon bits on top before baking for added flavor and crunch.

Common Questions

What is the prep time for this recipe?

Prep time is around 20-30 minutes, with an additional bake time of approximately 55 minutes.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix cheeses based on your preference. Fontina or Colby Jack are great options.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce without gluten.

This creamy scalloped potatoes with ham recipe combines simplicity with rich flavors, creating a delightful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy your cooking and the delightful aromas that will fill your kitchen!