Perfect Ham Scalloped Potato Recipe: Creamy & Golden

Get a perfectly creamy, golden-brown ham scalloped potato casserole with this tested recipe. Features thin-sliced Yukon Gold potatoes layered with smoked ham, sharp cheddar, and a rich béchamel sauce. Ready in 1 hour 15 minutes with 20 minutes prep time. Freezes well for holiday meal prep.

The Ultimate Ham Scalloped Potato Casserole

Nothing says comfort food quite like a bubbling dish of ham scalloped potatoes fresh from the oven. This recipe delivers the perfect balance of creamy texture and savory flavor that's become a staple at holiday dinners and Sunday suppers across America. Unlike many versions that turn out watery or bland, our method ensures consistent results with golden edges and tender-but-not-mushy potatoes every time.

Why This Recipe Works

Scalloped potatoes seem simple, but achieving that ideal creamy-yet-structured texture requires understanding a few key principles. The magic happens through proper potato selection, béchamel technique, and strategic layering. Adding smoked ham introduces a savory depth that transforms this side dish into a satisfying main course option.

Potato Variety	Best For Scalloped?	Texture When Cooked	Flavor Profile
Yukon Gold	★★★★★	Creamy with slight firmness	Buttery, rich
Russet	★★★☆☆	Fluffy, can become mushy	Earthy, neutral
Red Potatoes	★★☆☆☆	Firm, holds shape	Mild, slightly sweet
Idaho	★★★☆☆	Very fluffy, absorbs sauce	Neutral

Based on agricultural research from University of Minnesota Extension, Yukon Gold potatoes contain the ideal starch-to-moisture ratio for baked potato dishes. Their naturally buttery flavor reduces the need for excessive cream while maintaining structural integrity during baking.

Planning Your Perfect Casserole

Before you start cooking, consider these time-saving strategies for your ham scalloped potato recipe:

• Prep timeline: Complete assembly 24 hours ahead and refrigerate (add 15 minutes baking time)
• Equipment checklist: 9x13-inch baking dish, mandoline slicer (for even 1/8-inch slices), saucepan for béchamel
• Ham selection guide: Choose smoked ham steak (not deli ham) for best flavor and texture
• Serving size: This ham scalloped potato casserole serves 8-10 as a side dish

Ingredients You'll Need

For authentic ham scalloped potato flavor with professional results:

• 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8-inch thick
• 12 oz smoked ham steak, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg (freshly grated)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing Your Components

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) - this ham scalloped potato recipe requires consistent temperature
2. Place potato slices in cold water to prevent browning while prepping other ingredients
3. Cook ham cubes in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until slightly caramelized
4. Make the béchamel: Melt butter, whisk in flour for 1 minute, then gradually add warmed milk and cream
5. Season béchamel with salt, pepper, and nutmeg; simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes)

Layering for Perfect Results

Proper layering technique makes the difference between a soggy casserole and one with distinct, creamy layers. This is crucial for any successful ham scalloped potato recipe:

6. Drain potatoes thoroughly and pat dry with clean kitchen towels
7. Create first layer: 1/3 potatoes overlapping slightly in baking dish
8. Sprinkle with 1/3 ham cubes and 1/2 cup cheese
9. Pour 1/3 béchamel over layer, ensuring even coverage
10. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with béchamel on top
11. Mix breadcrumbs with 1 tbsp melted butter and sprinkle over surface

Baking to Perfection

According to USDA food safety guidelines, baked dishes containing dairy should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) before serving. For this ham scalloped potato casserole:

12. Cover dish with foil and bake 45 minutes
13. Remove foil and bake additional 20-25 minutes until golden brown
14. Check internal temperature reaches 160°F using instant-read thermometer
15. Let rest 15 minutes before serving (critical for proper texture setting)

When This Dish Shines: Context Boundaries

While delicious year-round, this ham scalloped potato recipe performs best in specific contexts:

• Holiday meals: Ideal for Easter brunch or Christmas dinner (make ahead saves oven space)
• Crowd-pleasing: Perfect for potlucks where you need a dish that travels well
• Meal prep: Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months (thaw overnight before reheating)
• Not recommended for weeknight dinners when time is limited (requires 1+ hour baking)

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even experienced cooks encounter problems with scalloped potatoes. Here's how to fix them:

• Soggy bottom: Pat potatoes completely dry before layering; ensure béchamel is properly thickened
• Dry texture: Don't skip the resting time; béchamel continues to absorb during this period
• Curdled sauce: Warm dairy before adding to roux; avoid boiling once cheese is added
• Bland flavor: Season each layer; use smoked ham for depth; add extra nutmeg to béchamel

Delicious Variations to Try

Once you've mastered the classic ham scalloped potato recipe, experiment with these chef-approved variations:

• Breakfast version: Add cooked bacon and top with poached eggs
• Vegetarian option
• Gluten-free adaptation
• Lighter version

Serving Suggestions

This versatile ham scalloped potato casserole pairs beautifully with:

• Roasted green beans with garlic
• Honey-glazed carrots
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Perfect alongside roasted turkey or glazed ham for holiday meals

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Proper storage ensures your ham scalloped potato leftovers maintain quality:

• Refrigeration: Store covered in airtight container for up to 4 days
• Reheating: Add 2 tbsp milk, cover, and warm at 325°F until internal temperature reaches 160°F
• Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months
• Thawing: Refrigerate overnight before reheating (don't thaw at room temperature)

Can I make ham scalloped potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add 15 minutes to baking time if cooking from cold. For best results, wait to add breadcrumb topping until just before baking.

Why are my scalloped potatoes watery?

Watery scalloped potatoes usually result from insufficient béchamel thickening or wet potato slices. Ensure your roux cooks for a full minute before adding dairy, and thoroughly dry potato slices after soaking. Using high-moisture potatoes like Russets can also cause excess liquid.

What's the difference between scalloped potatoes and au gratin?

Traditional scalloped potatoes use a simple milk or cream sauce without cheese, while au gratin includes cheese in the sauce or as a topping. Our ham scalloped potato recipe incorporates cheese for extra flavor, technically making it a hybrid version that's become popular in modern American cooking.

Can I use leftover ham for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover holiday ham works perfectly in this recipe. Use 2 cups diced cooked ham instead of ham steak. Sauté briefly to enhance flavor before layering. This is an excellent way to transform holiday leftovers into a completely new dish.