Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe from The Pioneer Woman
A make-ahead family favorite that delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with minimal effort.
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Some dishes are destined to be family favorites, and Ree Drummond’s Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is no exception. This hearty, creamy, cheesy casserole layers thinly sliced potatoes with savory ham, sharp cheddar, and Monterey Jack, delivering comfort in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at a holiday gathering or looking for a satisfying meal to enjoy at home, this recipe is a surefire winner for both flavor and ease.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food Classics: Potatoes and ham are a timeless combination, and this casserole highlights their best qualities—creamy, savory, and rich.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This dish is an excellent way to use up leftover holiday ham, reducing waste while creating a meal everyone will rave about.
- Feeds a Crowd: With a large batch size, this recipe is ideal for entertaining and potluck dinners.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead and simply bake when ready for a stress-free main course.
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes | 3 lbs | Washed and sliced thin |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing and greasing |
| Yellow onion | 1 medium (about 1 cup) | Diced |
| Diced ham | 3 cups | Leftover ham is perfect |
| Half-and-half | 1 1/2 cups | |
| Heavy cream | 1 1/2 cups | |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup | |
| Black pepper | To taste | |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 1 cup | Grated |
| Monterey Jack cheese | 1 cup | Grated |
| Salt | Optional, to taste | Ham and cheese are already salty |
How to Make Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
1. Preparing the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Generously butter a large casserole dish (a 9×13 inch pan is ideal). This prevents sticking and adds flavor.
2. Preparing the Filling
- Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 1–2 minutes.
- Add the diced ham and cook, stirring frequently, until the ham is heated through, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Making the Cream Mixture
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the half-and-half and heavy cream.
- Microwave for about 1 minute, just until the mixture is no longer cold.
- Whisk in the flour and black pepper until fully combined. Keep this mixture handy for layering.
4. Cheese Prep
- Combine the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses in a bowl. You’ll use this blend for layering.
5. Preparing the Potatoes
- Peel and wash the potatoes, then slice them very thinly—about 1/8-inch thick. A mandoline works best for even slices, but a sharp knife will do the job, too.
6. Layering the Casserole
- Layer one-third of the potato slices in the buttered casserole dish, shingling them slightly so they overlap.
- Sprinkle one-third of the ham and onion mixture over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle one-third of the cheese blend on top of the ham and onions.
- Pour one-third of the cream mixture evenly over the layers.
- Repeat this layering process twice more, ending with a final layer of cheese and the remaining cream mixture.
7. Baking Instructions
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife and the top is golden and bubbling.
- Let the casserole rest for at least 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
Tips for Perfect Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
- Slice Thick: Thin, even potato slices cook more evenly and absorb the creamy sauce better.
- Check for Doneness: The potatoes should be fork-tender before removing from the oven. Baking times may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your slices.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest helps thicken the sauce and makes it easier to cut and serve.
- Salt Sparingly: The ham and cheese add plenty of salt, so taste before adding more.
What others are reading
Recipe Variations
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Swiss, Gruyère, or Parmesan for a unique flavor twist.
- Vegetable Additions: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition and color.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute a gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.
- Skillet Version: Some recipes (notably Ree’s other versions) use a cast-iron skillet and add sliced garlic and green onions for extra flavor and a crispy, melty top under the broiler.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole stands on its own as a main course but can also be served as a hearty side dish. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:
- Green Vegetables: A crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or garden peas balance the richness of the casserole.
- Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or rolls for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Holiday Meals: This dish pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or chicken, making it a hit at holiday gatherings.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until heated through.
- Freezing: Assemble and freeze the casserole before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use different potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, both Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes work well. Russets are starchy and absorb the sauce beautifully, while Yukon Golds are slightly creamier and hold their shape better.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute a gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour to make this dish gluten-free.
3. Can I skip the ham for a vegetarian version?
Yes, omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms, leeks, or other vegetables for a vegetarian scalloped potato dish.
4. How do I know when the casserole is done?
Insert a knife into the center; the potatoes should be tender, and the sauce should be bubbling steadily. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil.
5. What’s the best way to slice potatoes thinly and evenly?
A mandoline slicer ensures uniform, thin slices, but a sharp knife and a steady hand work, too. The thinner the slices, the faster and more evenly the potatoes will cook.
More Comfort Food Recipes from The Pioneer Woman
If you loved this scalloped potatoes and ham casserole, be sure to try Ree Drummond’s other crowd-pleasing comfort food classics:
- Perfect Pot Roast — Slow-cooked beef with vegetables in a rich, savory gravy.
- Chicken Spaghetti — Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
- Beef Stew — Hearty, rustic, and filling, perfect for chilly evenings.
About The Pioneer Woman
Ree Drummond, known as The Pioneer Woman, is a beloved food writer, TV personality, and bestselling cookbook author. Her recipes are renowned for their simplicity, flavor, and approachability—making them favorites among home cooks and families nationwide.
Conclusion
Scalloped potatoes and ham is a comforting, satisfying dish that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any night you crave classic, hearty fare. With creamy, cheesy layers, tender potatoes, and savory ham, this casserole is sure to become a staple on your table. Whether you stick to the original recipe or add your own creative twist, you’ll find that this dish embodies the best of home-cooked convenience and flavor.
References
- https://cheesecurdinparadise.com/pioneer-womans-scalloped-potatoes-and/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBvgBDv7P_4
- https://keytomylime.com/scalloped-potatoes-and-ham-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a10593/scalloped-potatoes-and-ham/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KlUJRIF4ed0
- https://www.food.com/recipe/scalloped-potatoes-and-ham-pioneer-woman-497588
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88X-b_IKnqE
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