This ham scalloped potato casserole is a classic comfort dish featuring tender layers of thinly sliced potatoes, savory ham, and a rich, creamy sauce. Baked until golden and bubbly, it delivers a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or holiday tables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Comfort Food – Warm, creamy, and deeply satisfying
- Perfect Use for Leftover Ham – Great way to repurpose cooked ham
- Rich, Creamy Sauce – Homemade roux creates a silky texture
- Layered Flavor – Potatoes absorb the savory sauce as they bake
- Great for Feeding a Crowd – Ideal for gatherings or meal prep
- Customizable Topping – Optional cheese adds extra indulgence
Ingredients You’ll Need
Protein
- 16 oz cooked ham, cubed – Adds savory, hearty flavor
Vegetables
- 7 cups russet potatoes, thinly sliced – Provides structure and absorbs sauce
- 1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances overall flavor
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds mild heat
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds subtle savory notes
Dairy & Sauce
- 8 tablespoons butter (divided) – Creates richness and flavor
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce
- 3 cups milk – Forms the creamy base
Optional Topping
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese – Adds a golden, cheesy finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Sauce – Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk while whisking, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook 3–4 minutes until thickened.
Mix the Filling – In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, diced onion, and cubed ham.
Layer the Casserole – Grease a baking dish, add half the potato mixture, pour half the sauce, then repeat layers.
Add Butter & Topping – Dot with remaining butter and sprinkle cheese if using.
Bake Covered – Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 60 minutes.
Finish Baking – Remove foil and bake 20 more minutes until bubbly and potatoes are tender.
Serve Hot – Let rest briefly before serving.
Recipe Notes & Tips
- Slice Potatoes Evenly – Ensures uniform cooking
- Use a Mandoline – Helps achieve thin, consistent slices
- Cook Roux Properly – Prevents raw flour taste
- Cover Tightly – Traps steam for tender potatoes
- Check Doneness – Potatoes should be fork-tender
- Let It Rest – Helps sauce thicken before serving
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: ~20 minutes
- Cooking Time: ~80 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 40 minutes
- Servings: 6–8 portions
- Calories: ~400–550 kcal per serving (estimated)
Perfect Pairings
- Steamed Green Beans – Adds freshness and balance
- Garden Salad – Lightens the richness
- Dinner Rolls – Complements creamy texture
- Roast Chicken or Turkey – Enhances a full meal
Ideal Occasions
- Holiday Meals – Perfect Easter or Christmas side
- Family Dinners – Comforting and filling
- Potlucks – Easy to transport and share
- Leftover Makeovers – Great use for extra ham
Storage & Serving Tips
- Refrigerate Leftovers – Store in airtight container up to 4 days
- Reheat in Oven – Maintains creamy texture
- Add Milk When Reheating – Prevents dryness
- Serve Warm – Best flavor and consistency
Creative Variations to Try
- Cheesy Upgrade – Add more cheese or mix different varieties
- Vegetable Boost – Add broccoli or spinach
- Spicy Twist – Add cayenne or paprika
- Creamier Version – Substitute part of milk with cream
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Undercooked Potatoes – Slice thinner or bake longer
- Watery Sauce – Not cooked long enough to thicken
- Dry Texture – Add more milk or sauce
- Burnt Top – Cover loosely or reduce final bake time
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works by layering thinly sliced potatoes with a properly thickened béchamel-style sauce. As the casserole bakes, the potatoes absorb the creamy liquid, becoming tender while releasing starch that further thickens the dish. The butter adds richness, and the optional cheese enhances flavor and texture. Baking covered ensures even cooking, while uncovering at the end creates a golden finish. With an estimated 400–550 calories per serving, it provides a hearty, balanced comfort meal.
Final Thoughts
Ham scalloped potato casserole is a timeless dish that combines simple ingredients into a rich and satisfying meal. Its creamy layers and savory flavor make it perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions. For a lighter option, you can reduce butter or use lower-fat milk while still maintaining its comforting appeal.
