Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe
Scalloped potatoes and ham is a classic comfort food dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is made with thinly sliced potatoes, ham, and a creamy cheese sauce. The dish is then baked in the oven until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbly. Scalloped potatoes and ham is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.
To make scalloped potatoes and ham, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 pound ham, cooked and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, ham, onion, milk, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbly.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Benefits of scalloped potatoes and ham:
- Scalloped potatoes and ham is a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and calcium.
- It is a relatively low-fat dish.
- It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences.
Tips for making scalloped potatoes and ham:
- For a richer flavor, use smoked ham.
- If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use all milk instead.
- You can add other vegetables to the dish, such as diced carrots or celery.
- To make the dish ahead of time, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight. Then, bake it as directed before serving.
- Scalloped potatoes and ham can be served as a main course or a side dish.
Scalloped potatoes and ham is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it is a dish that everyone can enjoy.
Essential Aspects of Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Scalloped potatoes and ham is a classic dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a relatively simple dish to make, but there are a few key aspects that are essential to getting it right.
- Potatoes: The type of potatoes you use will affect the texture of the dish. Russet potatoes are the most common type of potato used for scalloped potatoes, as they have a high starch content which helps them to hold their shape.
- Ham: The type of ham you use will also affect the flavor of the dish. Smoked ham will give the dish a more intense flavor, while unsmoked ham will have a milder flavor.
- Sauce: The sauce is what binds the potatoes and ham together and gives the dish its creamy texture. A good sauce will be made with a combination of milk, cream, and cheese.
- Seasoning: Seasoning is essential to bringing out the flavor of the potatoes, ham, and sauce. Salt and pepper are the most basic seasonings, but you can also add other spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
- Baking: The baking process is what brings the dish together and gives the potatoes their signature scalloped shape. It is important to bake the dish at the correct temperature and for the correct amount of time.
- Serving: Scalloped potatoes and ham can be served as a main course or a side dish. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of other foods.
These are just a few of the key aspects that are essential to making a great scalloped potatoes and ham dish. By following these tips, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that your family and friends will love.
Scalloped potatoes and ham is a classic dish that is made with thinly sliced potatoes, ham, and a creamy sauce. It is a popular dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The dish is believed to have originated in France in the 18th century, and it has since become a staple in many cultures around the world.
There are many reasons why scalloped potatoes and ham is such a popular dish. It is relatively easy to make, it is hearty and filling, and it is delicious. The combination of potatoes, ham, and cheese is a classic flavor combination that appeals to people of all ages. Additionally, scalloped potatoes and ham can be tailored to fit different tastes and preferences. For example, you can add different vegetables to the dish, or you can use different types of cheese.
Scalloped potatoes and ham is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. It is also a great dish to make ahead of time, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights. If you are looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is sure to please everyone at the table, scalloped potatoes and ham is a great option.
FAQs about Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Scalloped potatoes and ham is a classic dish that is enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a relatively simple dish to make, but there are a few common questions that people have about it.
Question 1: What type of potatoes should I use for scalloped potatoes?
The best type of potatoes to use for scalloped potatoes is a starchy potato, such as a Russet potato. Starchy potatoes will hold their shape better during baking, and they will also absorb the flavors of the sauce more easily.
Question 2: Can I use other types of meat in scalloped potatoes?
Yes, you can use other types of meat in scalloped potatoes, such as bacon, sausage, or ground beef. However, ham is the traditional meat used in scalloped potatoes, and it gives the dish its signature flavor.
Question 3: What is the best way to make the sauce for scalloped potatoes?
The best way to make the sauce for scalloped potatoes is to use a combination of milk, cream, and cheese. The milk and cream will give the sauce a smooth and creamy texture, while the cheese will add flavor and richness.
Question 4: How long should I bake scalloped potatoes?
The baking time for scalloped potatoes will vary depending on the thickness of the potatoes and the type of baking dish you are using. However, a general rule of thumb is to bake scalloped potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbly.
Question 5: Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make scalloped potatoes ahead of time. Simply assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight. Then, bake the casserole as directed before serving.
Question 6: What are some tips for making the best scalloped potatoes?
Here are a few tips for making the best scalloped potatoes:
- Use a sharp knife to thinly slice the potatoes.
- Soak the potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before baking. This will help to remove excess starch and prevent the potatoes from sticking together.
- Layer the potatoes and ham in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the sauce over the potatoes and ham.
- Bake the scalloped potatoes until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbly. Let the scalloped potatoes cool for 10 minutes before serving.
By following these tips, you can make a delicious and hearty dish that your family and friends will love.
Summary:
Scalloped potatoes and ham is a classic dish that is easy to make and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. By following the tips in this FAQ, you can make the best scalloped potatoes possible.
Next:
To learn more about scalloped potatoes and ham, you can read the following article:
[Link to article]
Conclusion
Scalloped potatoes and ham is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a simple dish to make, but it is packed with flavor. The combination of potatoes, ham, and cheese is a classic flavor combination that appeals to people of all ages. Scalloped potatoes and ham can be served as a main course or a side dish, and it is a great dish to make ahead of time.
In this article, we have explored the history of scalloped potatoes and ham, as well as the different ingredients and techniques that can be used to make this dish. We have also provided a few tips for making the best scalloped potatoes and ham possible. We hope that you have found this article informative and helpful.
Scalloped potatoes and ham is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. We encourage you to try making this dish at home, and we hope that you enjoy it as much as we do.