Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is a classic dish that is loved by many. It is a comforting and hearty meal that is perfect for cold days. Recently, I tried making this dish at home and was amazed at how easy it was to prepare. Scalloped potatoes and ham have
been a family favorite for generations. Growing up, my mom would make this dish for us on special occasions and it always brought the family together around the dinner table. As I got older, I started to help my mom in the kitchen and eventually took over the responsibility of making this dish for family gatherings.
I remember the first time I made scalloped potatoes and ham on my own. I was nervous and worried that I would mess up the recipe, but my mom was there to guide me through the process. We spent the afternoon slicing potatoes, dicing ham, and making the creamy sauce. As we layered the ingredients in the baking dish, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride that I was continuing the tradition of making this dish for my family.
As we pulled the dish out of the oven, the aroma of melted cheese and baked potatoes filled the kitchen. My family eagerly gathered around the table, ready to dig in. With each bite, we savored the creamy sauce, tender potatoes, and salty ham. It was the perfect combination of flavors and textures, and I knew that this dish would always hold a special place in my heart.
Now, whenever I make scalloped potatoes and ham, I feel a connection to my family's past and a sense of responsibility to continue the tradition for future generations. It's more than just a dish, it's a way to bring my family together and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs of potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups of diced ham
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- ½ cup of all-purpose flour
- ½ cup of unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
How to Make it:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk until smooth.
- Gradually add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the saucepan, whisking constantly until smooth.
- Stir in the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add the sliced potatoes and diced ham to the saucepan and stir to coat with the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the potato and ham mixture.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
How to Store it:
If you have any leftovers, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days.
How to Reheat it:
To reheat the Scalloped Potatoes and Ham, preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the desired portion in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Tips to Make it More Delicious:
- Use a mix of different types of potatoes such as russet, Yukon gold, and sweet potatoes for added flavor and texture.
- Add sautéed onions and garlic to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Top the dish with breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips for added crunch.
- Substitute the ham for cooked bacon or smoked sausage for a different flavor.
FAQs:
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can use milk instead of heavy cream but the sauce will be thinner and not as rich.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold from the refrigerator.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in foil and storing it in the freezer. It will keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it as directed.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use a different type of cheese such as Gruyere or Parmesan for a different flavor.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can add vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or peas to this dish for added nutrition and flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
You can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free flour such as rice flour or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour. Additionally, be sure to use a gluten-free chicken broth.
Conclusion:
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is a classic dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you are serving it as a main dish or a side dish, it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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