Ham and Scalloped Potato Recipe: A Classic Comfort Food
Looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that's perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion? Look no further than this delicious ham and scalloped potato recipe. This classic dish is surprisingly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly complements the salty ham and tender potatoes, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
What Makes This Ham and Scalloped Potato Recipe So Special?
This recipe stands out from others because of its focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and a perfectly balanced flavor profile. We're not just throwing potatoes and ham together; we're crafting a dish with layers of texture and taste. Here's what makes it special:
- Perfectly cooked potatoes: We use a technique that ensures tender, yet not mushy, potatoes.
- Flavorful ham: We recommend using a good quality ham, such as spiral-cut ham, for the best taste.
- Creamy, cheesy sauce: Our sauce is rich and decadent, but not too heavy.
- Easy-to-follow instructions: Even beginner cooks can master this recipe.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 lb spiral-cut ham, cubed
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
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Prepare the potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. Aim for even slices to ensure even cooking.
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Make the cheese sauce: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
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Assemble the scalloped potatoes: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the potatoes, then half of the ham, and then half of the cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers. If using Gruyere, sprinkle it evenly over the top layer.
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Bake: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered potatoes and ham. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
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Rest and serve: Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for easier slicing.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of some of the milk.
- Add a sprinkle of paprika or garlic powder to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.
- Use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Colby Jack.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Considerations:
This recipe post is optimized for search engines by including relevant keywords throughout the text, such as "ham and scalloped potatoes," "scalloped potato recipe," "ham recipe," "comfort food," and variations thereof. The use of headers (H2, H3) helps structure the content for both readers and search engines. The inclusion of a detailed step-by-step guide, tips, and variations further enhances its SEO value. The use of semantically related terms contributes to the overall optimization strategy.
This recipe is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy!
