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Classic Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Casserole

A close-up slice of rich, creamy scalloped potatoes and ham with a golden, cheesy, baked top.

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Make this creamy, cheesy potato casserole with ham. It is a satisfying comfort food perfect for using leftover holiday ham or serving as a hearty family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 cups cooked ham, diced
  • 1/2 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 Fahrenheit. 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 and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
  4. Gradually 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 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese and all of the Gruyere cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
  6. In a large bowl, gently toss the thinly sliced potatoes and diced ham with the cheese sauce until everything is evenly coated.
  7. Pour the potato and ham mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
  8. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
  10. 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 golden brown and bubbly.
  11. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For best results, slice potatoes uniformly thin, about 1/8 inch thick. A mandoline slicer helps achieve consistency.
  • You can prepare this cheesy potato bake with ham ahead of time. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
  • If you prefer a smokier flavor, substitute smoked gouda scalloped potatoes cheese for some of the cheddar.

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