Deluxe Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bubbling dish of scalloped potatoes. It’s a classic for a reason – the creamy, cheesy sauce enveloping tender slices of potato is pure culinary bliss. But when you add savory, diced ham into the mix? That’s when scalloped potatoes transform from a delightful side dish into a hearty, satisfying main course that becomes a family favorite. In my house, this Deluxe Scalloped Potatoes and Ham recipe is requested time and time again, especially after a holiday ham dinner when we inevitably have leftovers. The aroma alone, wafting from the oven, is enough to gather everyone around the kitchen table, eager for a taste of this creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s a dish that speaks of warmth, comfort, and home-cooked love, and I’m thrilled to share this version with you, which elevates the classic with a touch of cream cheese for extra richness and depth of flavor. Get ready to experience scalloped potatoes and ham like never before – this recipe is truly one of the best you’ll ever make!

The Star Ingredients: What You’ll Need

The beauty of scalloped potatoes and ham lies in its simplicity, using humble ingredients to create something truly extraordinary. However, the quality of these ingredients and how they are prepared plays a crucial role in the final deliciousness of the dish. Let’s delve into each component and understand why they are essential and how to choose the best for your culinary masterpiece:

• 1 tablespoon Butter (Softened): For Greasing the Pan – This seemingly small amount of butter is the foundation upon which our delicious creation is built. Softened butter, rubbed generously across the bottom and sides of your 9×13 inch baking dish, prevents the potatoes from sticking and ensures easy serving. Use unsalted butter for greasing, as we will be controlling the salt content with other ingredients. You can also use cooking spray as an alternative, but butter lends a subtle richness and flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
• 4 tablespoons Butter (Unsalted): For the Cream Sauce – This is where the magic truly begins! Four tablespoons of butter form the base of our luscious cream sauce. Unsalted butter is preferred here to allow us to precisely control the saltiness of the sauce with the seasoned salt. As the butter melts in the skillet, it creates a rich, flavorful foundation for the onions and garlic to bloom, and subsequently, for the flour to create a smooth roux. The quality of butter does matter – using a good quality butter with a higher fat content will contribute to a richer, more decadent sauce.
• 2 Medium to Large Sized Yellow Onions: Sliced – Yellow onions are the workhorse of this recipe, providing a foundational savory sweetness that underpins the entire flavor profile. When sautéed, yellow onions mellow out, releasing their natural sugars and creating a depth of flavor that is both comforting and complex. Slicing the onions is key – aim for thin slices, about ¼ inch thick, so they soften beautifully in the butter without overpowering the dish with their texture. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can use sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla. For a more pungent flavor, white onions can be used, but yellow onions strike the perfect balance for this recipe.
• 3 Garlic Cloves: Minced – Garlic, the aromatic powerhouse! Three cloves of minced garlic add a pungent, savory note that cuts through the richness of the cream sauce and complements the ham perfectly. Freshly minced garlic is always best for its vibrant flavor. Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing; it should become fragrant and slightly softened but not browned or bitter. If you are sensitive to garlic, you can start with two cloves and adjust to taste. Alternatively, you can roast the garlic cloves before mincing for a milder, sweeter garlic flavor.
• 2 teaspoons Lawry’s Seasoned Salt – Lawry’s Seasoned Salt is a secret weapon in this recipe, providing a balanced blend of salt, herbs, and spices that elevates the flavor beyond simple salt and pepper. It adds a subtle savory depth that complements the creamy potatoes and ham. If you don’t have Lawry’s, you can substitute with a combination of salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of turmeric. However, for the authentic flavor, Lawry’s is highly recommended. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning later, as the ham and cheese will also contribute salt.
• 1 teaspoon Black Pepper – Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity to the sauce. It balances the richness and sweetness of the other ingredients and provides a subtle warmth. Freshly ground pepper is always preferable for its brighter, more aromatic flavor compared to pre-ground pepper. Adjust the amount of pepper to your preference – some may prefer a more peppery kick, while others prefer a milder flavor.
• 3 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour – Flour is the thickening agent that transforms the butter, chicken broth, and cream into a luscious cream sauce. All-purpose flour is readily available and works perfectly for this purpose. It’s crucial to cook the flour in the butter for about a minute to create a roux. This process cooks out the raw flour taste and ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce. If you are gluten-free, you can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring it’s designed for thickening sauces.
• 1 cup Chicken Broth (Low Sodium Recommended) – Chicken broth adds a savory depth and thins the sauce to the perfect consistency. Low sodium chicken broth is recommended to control the overall salt content of the dish, especially since we are using seasoned salt and ham. You can use homemade or store-bought broth, but opt for a good quality broth for the best flavor. Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian alternative, although chicken broth provides a richer flavor that complements the ham.
• 2 ½ cups Heavy Cream (Divided) – Heavy cream is the key to the luxurious creaminess of this dish. It adds richness, body, and a velvety texture to the sauce. We divide the heavy cream, using ½ cup to toss with the sliced potatoes to prevent browning and 2 cups for the cream sauce itself. Using heavy cream is essential for achieving the desired creamy texture; half-and-half or milk will result in a thinner sauce. If you want to slightly reduce the richness, you can substitute ½ cup of the heavy cream with whole milk, but heavy cream is highly recommended for the best results.
• 4 oz Cream Cheese: Cubed – This is the secret ingredient that elevates this scalloped potatoes and ham recipe to “deluxe” status! Cream cheese adds a tangy richness and an extra layer of creaminess to the sauce. It melts beautifully into the hot sauce, creating a velvety smooth texture and a subtle tang that balances the richness of the cream and cheese. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best flavor and texture. Ensure the cream cheese is cubed to help it melt more quickly and evenly into the sauce.
• 3 lbs Russet Potatoes: Peeled, Sliced ⅛ inch thick – Russet potatoes are the ideal choice for scalloped potatoes due to their high starch content and low moisture. This means they hold their shape well when cooked and create a creamy texture without becoming mushy. Peeling the potatoes is essential for a smooth, refined texture. Slicing them thinly, to ⅛ inch thickness, is crucial for even cooking and tenderness. A mandoline, v-slicer, or food processor with a slicing blade makes this task much easier and ensures consistent thickness. If slicing by hand, aim for uniform slices as much as possible. Tossing the sliced potatoes with ½ cup of cream immediately after slicing helps prevent them from browning while you prepare the sauce.
• 2 cups (Heaping) Cooked Ham: Diced – Cooked ham adds a savory, salty, and slightly smoky element that complements the creamy potatoes and cheese perfectly. Leftover ham from a holiday dinner is ideal for this recipe, but you can also use store-bought cooked ham. Dicing the ham into bite-sized pieces ensures it’s evenly distributed throughout the dish and easy to eat. Use a good quality ham for the best flavor. Smoked ham will add an extra layer of smoky depth, while a sweeter ham will provide a different flavor profile. Feel free to adjust the amount of ham to your preference.
• 2 cups Good Quality Cheddar Cheese: Shredded – Cheddar cheese is the classic choice for scalloped potatoes and ham, providing a sharp, tangy, and melty finish. Good quality cheddar cheese, with a robust flavor, is essential for adding depth and richness to the dish. Shredding the cheese ensures it melts evenly and creates a beautiful golden-brown crust on top. You can use mild, medium, sharp, or extra-sharp cheddar depending on your preference. For a more complex flavor, you can use a blend of cheddar and another cheese like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Colby. Pre-shredded cheese can be used for convenience, but freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and often has a better flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Now that we have our star ingredients prepared, let’s embark on the journey of creating this delectable dish. Follow these step-by-step instructions for scalloped potato and ham perfection:

1. Prep & Potatoes: Laying the Foundation

• Preheat the Oven & Grease the Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures the potatoes cook through properly and the cheese melts beautifully. While the oven is preheating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of softened butter. Ensure you coat the bottom and sides evenly to prevent sticking.
  • Pro Tip: For extra insurance against sticking, you can lightly dust the buttered dish with flour or breadcrumbs.
• Prepare the Potatoes: Peel 3 pounds of russet potatoes. Using a mandoline, v-slicer, or food processor with an ⅛ inch slicing blade, slice the potatoes into uniform ⅛ inch thick slices. Consistency in thickness is key for even cooking. If slicing by hand, aim for thin, even slices.
  • Pro Tip: If you don’t have a mandoline or slicer, use a sharp knife and take your time to slice the potatoes as evenly as possible. Slightly thicker slices will require longer cooking time.
• Prevent Browning: Place the sliced potatoes in a large bowl and toss them with ½ cup of heavy cream. This simple step is crucial to prevent the potatoes from oxidizing and turning brown while you prepare the sauce. The cream also helps to pre-coat the potatoes, contributing to a creamier final texture.
  • Alternative Tip: If you don’t want to use cream to prevent browning, you can submerge the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water with a squeeze of lemon juice. Drain and pat them dry before layering.

2. Cream Sauce: The Heart of the Dish

• Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the sliced yellow onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become slightly translucent. Don’t rush this step; allowing the onions to soften and release their sugars is essential for building flavor.
  • Pro Tip: For even more flavor, you can sauté the onions until they are lightly caramelized, which will take longer but add a deeper sweetness.
• Bloom Aromatics: Add the minced garlic, 2 teaspoons of Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper to the skillet with the softened onions. Stir and cook for 1 minute more, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
  • Smell Test: You’ll know the garlic is ready when you can smell its fragrant aroma filling your kitchen.
• Create the Roux: Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour evenly over the onion and garlic mixture in the skillet. Stir continuously for about 1 minute, ensuring the flour is fully incorporated into the butter and onions. This creates a roux, which is the base for our cream sauce. Cooking the flour at this stage is crucial to eliminate the raw flour taste and ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce.
  • Visual Cue: The mixture will become slightly thickened and pasty as the flour cooks into the butter.
• Build the Cream Sauce: Gradually whisk in 1 cup of chicken broth and the remaining 2 cups of heavy cream into the skillet. Whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming and ensure a smooth sauce. Add the cubed 4 oz of cream cheese to the sauce.
  • Pro Tip: Adding the liquids gradually and whisking continuously is key to preventing lumps. If lumps do form, you can use an immersion blender to smooth out the sauce once it has thickened.
• Thicken the Sauce: Simmer the sauce for a couple of minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  • Consistency Check: To test for thickness, dip a spoon into the sauce and run your finger across the back of the spoon. If the sauce holds its shape and doesn’t immediately run back together, it’s thick enough.

3. Layering in the Prepared 9×13 Pan: Assembling the Delight

• First Layer of Sauce and Potatoes: Pour about 1 cup of the onion cream sauce into the bottom of the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with a layer of sliced potatoes, slightly overlapping them to create a solid base.
  • Even Distribution: Ensure the sauce and potatoes are evenly distributed across the pan for consistent cooking and flavor in every bite.
• Sauce, Ham, and Potatoes (Repeat Layers): Spread a generous cup of the onion cream sauce over the layer of potatoes. Sprinkle half of the diced ham evenly over the sauce. Top with another layer of sliced potatoes, slightly overlapping. Spread another generous cup of onion cream sauce over the potatoes. Sprinkle the remaining ham evenly over the sauce.
  • Layering Order: The layering order ensures that the potatoes are cooked in the creamy sauce and the ham is distributed throughout the dish.
• Final Layer of Potatoes and Sauce: Layer the remaining sliced potatoes on top of the ham. Pour all the remaining cream sauce evenly over the final layer of potatoes, ensuring they are fully coated.
  • Sauce Coverage: Make sure all the potatoes are covered in sauce to prevent them from drying out during baking.
• Cheese Topping: Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the sauce-covered potatoes.
  • Cheese Distribution: Evenly distributing the cheese ensures a beautiful golden-brown crust over the entire dish.
• Press Down and Cover: Gently press down on the dish with your hands or a spatula to help everything settle and compact in the pan. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place the dish on a large rimmed baking sheet to catch any potential boil-overs during baking.
  • Foil Seal: Tightly sealing the foil is crucial for steaming the potatoes and ensuring they cook through evenly.
  • Baking Sheet Safety: The rimmed baking sheet is essential as scalloped potatoes are prone to bubbling over in the oven.
  • Pro Tip: Spray the underside of the foil with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the cheese from sticking to the foil as it melts.

4. Baking & Resting: The Final Transformation

• Initial Bake (Covered): Bake the covered dish in the preheated oven for 70 minutes. This allows the potatoes to steam and cook through in the creamy sauce.
  • Steam Cooking: The foil creates a steamy environment that is essential for tender potatoes.
• Final Bake (Uncovered): Carefully remove the foil from the baking dish. Bake for an additional 30 minutes, uncovered, until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and a knife inserted into the center of the dish slides in easily without resistance.
  • Browning and Tenderness Check: The uncovered baking allows the cheese to melt and brown beautifully and the potatoes to finish cooking and become perfectly tender.
• Doneness Test: To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center of the dish. If it slides in easily without resistance, the potatoes are cooked through. If you encounter resistance, it means the potatoes are still slightly firm. In this case, return the dish to the oven for 10-minute increments, checking for doneness after each increment. If the top is browning too quickly, lightly tent it with foil to prevent burning.
  • Potato Thickness Impact: If your potato slices were slightly thicker than ⅛ inch, they may require longer cooking time.
• Resting Time: Remove the scalloped potatoes and ham from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before serving. This resting time is crucial. The dish will be very bubbly and soupy when it first comes out of the oven. During resting, the sauce will thicken, settle, and become perfectly creamy and sliceable.
  • Sauce Thickening: The resting period allows the starches in the potatoes and the roux in the sauce to fully absorb the liquid, resulting in a thicker, creamier consistency.
  • Temperature Moderation: Resting also allows the dish to cool slightly, making it easier and safer to serve and enjoy.

5. Serving: Time to Enjoy!

• Scoop generous portions of the Deluxe Scalloped Potatoes and Ham onto plates for individual servings. The dish is rich and satisfying, so moderate portions are usually sufficient.

Nutritional Information: A Comforting Indulgence

While incredibly delicious and comforting, it’s also important to be mindful of the nutritional content of this Deluxe Scalloped Potatoes and Ham recipe. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional facts per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Servings: 6-8 people
• Calories: Approximately 911 kcal per serving

Important Note: These are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and cooking methods.

Nutritional Considerations:

• High in Calories: This dish is calorie-dense due to the heavy cream, cheese, and butter. Portion control is key if you are watching your calorie intake.
• Rich in Fat: The recipe is high in fat, particularly saturated fat, from the cream, cheese, and butter. While these fats contribute to the rich flavor and texture, they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
• Sodium Content: The recipe contains sodium from the seasoned salt, ham, cheese, and chicken broth. Using low-sodium chicken broth and being mindful of the amount of seasoned salt used can help reduce sodium content.
• Carbohydrates: Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, primarily starch. They also provide fiber, especially if you leave the skins on (though this recipe calls for peeled potatoes for texture).
• Protein: Ham and cheese contribute protein to the dish, making it a more satisfying and balanced meal.
• Calcium: Cheese and cream are good sources of calcium, which is essential for bone health.

Healthier Swaps (for consideration):

While this recipe is designed to be indulgent, you can make some modifications to lighten it up slightly:

• Reduce Heavy Cream: Substitute ½ cup of the heavy cream with whole milk or evaporated milk to reduce fat content. This will slightly alter the richness but still provide a creamy sauce.
• Use Less Cheese: Reduce the amount of cheddar cheese by ½ cup to lower calories and fat.
• Leaner Ham: Choose a leaner cut of ham or use a lower-sodium ham option.
• Increase Vegetables: Add other vegetables like sliced mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli florets to the layers to increase nutritional value and fiber content (though this will deviate from the classic recipe).

Ultimately, this Deluxe Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is a dish to be enjoyed in moderation as a special treat or comforting meal. Being aware of its nutritional profile allows you to make informed choices and balance it with other healthy meals in your diet.

Preparation Time: Plan Accordingly

Understanding the timeline for preparing this dish is essential for successful meal planning. Here’s a breakdown of the time components:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes – This includes:
  • Greasing the baking dish (5 minutes)
  • Peeling and slicing potatoes (15 minutes – less if using a mandoline or food processor)
  • Slicing onions and mincing garlic (10 minutes)
  • Cubing cream cheese (negligible time)
  • Shredding cheese (if using block cheese – otherwise negligible)
  • Dicing ham (negligible time if pre-diced)
  • Measuring out ingredients (negligible time)
• Cook Time: 2 hours – This includes:
  • Sautéing onions and garlic (5-7 minutes)
  • Making the cream sauce (10-15 minutes)
  • Baking covered (70 minutes)
  • Baking uncovered (30 minutes)
• Resting Time: 20 minutes – This is crucial for the sauce to thicken and the dish to settle.
• Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes – This is the total time from start to finish.

Planning Tips:

• Weekend Meal: Due to the longer cooking time, this dish is often best suited for weekend dinners or special occasions when you have more time to dedicate to cooking.
• Prep Ahead: You can save some time by prepping ingredients in advance. You can slice the potatoes and store them in cold water (or toss with cream) up to a few hours ahead. You can also slice the onions, mince the garlic, and shred the cheese ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator.
• Make-Ahead Option (Partial): You can assemble the entire dish, up to the point of baking, and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add about 15-20 minutes to the covered baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
• Leftovers: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham leftovers are delicious! They can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Knowing the time commitment allows you to plan your cooking schedule effectively and ensures you have ample time to create this delicious and comforting meal.

How to Serve: Complete Your Comfort Meal

Deluxe Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is a hearty and satisfying dish on its own, but it shines even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes and served in the right setting. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

Serving Occasions:

• Holiday Ham Leftovers: The perfect way to use up leftover ham after Easter, Christmas, or Thanksgiving.
• Comfort Food Dinner: Ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner, especially during colder months.
• Potlucks and Gatherings: A crowd-pleasing dish that travels well and is always a hit at potlucks, family gatherings, and casual parties.
• Special Occasions: Elegant enough to be part of a special occasion meal when you want a comforting yet impressive dish.
• Weekends Brunches: Serve smaller portions as part of a brunch spread alongside other breakfast and brunch favorites.

Side Dish Pairings (Consider these options for a balanced meal):

• Green Salad: A crisp and refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a welcome contrast to the richness of the scalloped potatoes and ham.
  • Examples: Simple mixed greens salad, Caesar salad, spinach salad with berries and nuts.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables add color, nutrients, and textural variety.
  • Examples: Roasted asparagus, roasted broccoli, roasted Brussels sprouts, roasted carrots, roasted green beans.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed vegetables offer a healthy and simple side.
  • Examples: Steamed green beans, steamed peas, steamed broccoli, steamed snap peas.
• Dinner Rolls or Biscuits: Warm, soft dinner rolls or biscuits are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and adding a touch of sweetness.
• Cranberry Sauce (Especially with Ham Leftovers): If serving after a holiday ham, cranberry sauce provides a familiar and delicious accompaniment.
• Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and balance the richness of the main dish.

Serving Style:

• Scoop and Serve: Serve directly from the baking dish, scooping generous portions onto plates.
• Individual Casseroles (Optional): For a more elegant presentation, you can bake the scalloped potatoes and ham in individual ramekins or small casserole dishes.
• Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of paprika for visual appeal.

Beverage Pairings:

• White Wine: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the creamy richness of the dish.
• Light Red Wine: A light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir can also complement the flavors.
• Beer: A light lager or a pale ale can be a refreshing pairing.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade: Non-alcoholic options like iced tea or lemonade are refreshing and balance the richness.

By considering these serving suggestions, you can create a complete and enjoyable dining experience centered around your delicious Deluxe Scalloped Potatoes and Ham.

Pro Tips for Scalloped Potato Perfection

Want to take your Scalloped Potatoes and Ham from great to absolutely phenomenal? Here are five pro tips to elevate your dish and ensure success every time:

1. Uniform Potato Slices are Key: Achieving perfectly cooked, tender potatoes hinges on slicing them uniformly to approximately ⅛ inch thickness. Inconsistent slices will lead to some potatoes being undercooked and others overcooked. Invest in a mandoline, v-slicer, or food processor with a slicing blade if you make scalloped potatoes often. If slicing by hand, take your time and aim for consistency.
2. Don’t Skip the Cream Toss (or Water Soak): Tossing the sliced potatoes with ½ cup of heavy cream (as in the recipe) or soaking them in cold water immediately after slicing is crucial to prevent browning. Potatoes oxidize quickly when exposed to air, leading to an unappetizing grayish color. This simple step ensures your scalloped potatoes retain their beautiful creamy white color and also helps to pre-coat them for a creamier texture.
3. Build Flavor in Layers: Don’t just dump all the ingredients together. Sautéing the onions and garlic in butter first builds a flavor base for the cream sauce. Cooking the flour in the butter to create a roux eliminates the raw flour taste and ensures a smooth sauce. Layering the ingredients – sauce, potatoes, ham, sauce, potatoes, ham, sauce, potatoes, sauce, cheese – ensures that every bite is perfectly balanced and flavorful.
4. Don’t Overbake (and Test for Doneness): Overbaking can lead to dry potatoes and a scorched cheese topping. Follow the baking times in the recipe as a guideline, but always test for doneness. A knife inserted into the center should slide in easily without resistance. If you feel resistance, it means the potatoes need more time. If the top is browning too quickly before the potatoes are cooked, loosely tent the dish with foil.
5. Rest is Best (for Sauce Thickness): Resist the temptation to dig into the scalloped potatoes and ham immediately after they come out of the oven. The 20-minute resting time is not optional; it’s essential! During this rest, the sauce continues to thicken as the starches in the potatoes and the roux absorb the liquid. The dish will transform from bubbly and slightly soupy to creamy, sliceable, and perfectly textured. Patience is a virtue – especially when it comes to scalloped potatoes!

Frequently Asked Questions: Your Scalloped Potato Queries Answered

Got questions about making the perfect Deluxe Scalloped Potatoes and Ham? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you troubleshoot and achieve culinary success:

Q1: My scalloped potatoes are still firm after the recommended baking time. What did I do wrong?

A1: Several factors can contribute to undercooked potatoes:

• Potato Slice Thickness: If your potato slices were thicker than ⅛ inch, they will require longer cooking time. Even slightly thicker slices can significantly increase baking time.
• Oven Temperature Inaccuracy: Oven temperatures can vary. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is accurately preheated to 400°F (200°C).
• Insufficient Sauce: If there wasn’t enough cream sauce to fully coat and cook the potatoes, they may not soften properly. Ensure you use the full amount of sauce specified in the recipe and that it covers all the potato layers.
• Baking Dish Material: Dark metal baking dishes tend to cook faster than glass or ceramic dishes. If using a glass or ceramic dish, you may need to add a little extra baking time.

Solution: If your potatoes are still firm, return the dish to the oven, covered with foil, for an additional 10-15 minutes. Test for doneness again with a knife. Repeat in 10-minute increments until the potatoes are tender. If the top is browning too much, tent it with foil.

Q2: My cream sauce is too thin and watery. How can I thicken it?

A2: A thin sauce can be due to:

• Insufficient Roux: Not cooking the flour in the butter for long enough or not using enough flour can result in a weak roux that doesn’t thicken the sauce properly.
• Too Much Liquid: Accidentally adding too much chicken broth or cream can dilute the sauce.
• Not Simmering Long Enough: The sauce needs to simmer for a few minutes to allow the roux to fully thicken the liquid and the cream cheese to melt and contribute to the thickness.

Solution: If your sauce is too thin, you can try these options:

• Simmer Longer: Return the skillet with the sauce to medium heat and simmer gently, stirring constantly, until it thickens to your desired consistency. Be careful not to scorch the sauce.
• Cornstarch Slurry (Emergency Fix): In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Gradually whisk this slurry into the simmering sauce and cook for another minute or two, until thickened. Be careful not to add too much cornstarch, as it can make the sauce gluey.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A3: Yes, you can prepare the Deluxe Scalloped Potatoes and Ham partially or fully ahead of time:

• Assemble Ahead (Unbaked): You can assemble the entire dish, up to the point of baking, and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add about 15-20 minutes to the covered baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
• Bake Ahead and Reheat: You can bake the dish completely ahead of time and reheat it later. Let it cool completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, until heated through, about 30-40 minutes. You can remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to crisp up the top.

Q4: Can I use different types of cheese?

A4: Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses or cheese blends:

• Monterey Jack: Adds a mild, creamy flavor and melts beautifully.
• Gruyere: Offers a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that complements the ham well.
• Fontina: Provides a creamy, rich, and slightly tangy flavor.
• Pepper Jack: For a spicier kick, use pepper jack cheese.
• Cheese Blends: Try a blend of cheddar and Gruyere, cheddar and Monterey Jack, or a three-cheese blend for a more complex flavor.

Q5: Can I make this recipe without ham (vegetarian version)?

A5: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian by omitting the ham. To compensate for the savory flavor and heartiness of the ham, consider adding:

• Sautéed Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic to add a savory, earthy flavor.
• Caramelized Onions: Caramelize the onions for longer to deepen their flavor and sweetness.
• Smoked Paprika: Add ½-1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the cream sauce to introduce a smoky flavor element.
• Vegetarian “Ham” (Optional): You can use vegetarian “ham” or smoked tofu for a plant-based alternative to ham, though this will deviate further from the classic recipe.

By understanding these common questions and their answers, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any challenges and create perfect Deluxe Scalloped Potatoes and Ham every time!

Print