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Classic Creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Casserole

A thick slice of cheesy scalloped potatoes and ham casserole with a golden-brown, bubbly top.

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This recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food: creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes layered with savory ham, baked until golden brown. It is perfect for using leftover holiday ham and makes a hearty family dinner or potluck contribution.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 cups cooked ham, diced
  • 1 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
  3. Whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring until it thickens slightly, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  5. Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add 1.5 cups of the cheddar cheese and all of the Gruyere cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
  6. Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the diced ham over the potatoes.
  7. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the first layer.
  8. Repeat the layers: remaining potatoes, remaining ham, and the rest of the cheese sauce.
  9. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  10. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
  11. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is bubbly and golden brown.
  12. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before you serve it.

Notes

  • You can prepare this cheesy potato bake with ham entirely ahead of time. Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10 to 15 minutes to the initial covered baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
  • For a smoky flavor, substitute smoked gouda for the Gruyere cheese.
  • If you want a quicker bake time, you can microwave the sliced potatoes for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened before layering.

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