Unbeatable Ham and Scalloped Potato Recipes: A Culinary Masterpiece

Ham and Scalloped Potato Recipes

Ham and scalloped potato recipes are a classic comfort food. They are perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. The combination of ham, potatoes, and cheese is irresistible. Plus, they are easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste.

To make ham and scalloped potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

1 ham steak, cooked and diced
1 pound potatoes, thinly sliced
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter, melted
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large bowl, combine the ham, potatoes, onion, cheddar cheese, milk, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Bake for 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Benefits:

Ham and scalloped potatoes are a good source of protein and carbohydrates.
They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and iron.
Ham and scalloped potatoes can be a healthy and satisfying meal.

Tip 1: Use a variety of potatoes. A combination of russet potatoes and Yukon Gold potatoes will give your scalloped potatoes a creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavor.

Tip 2: Slice the potatoes thinly. This will help them cook evenly and prevent them from becoming mushy.

Tip 3: Don’t overcook the potatoes. They should be tender but still have a little bit of bite to them.

Tip 4: Use a flavorful ham. A smoked ham or a honey-baked ham will add a lot of flavor to your scalloped potatoes.

Tip 5: Add some other vegetables to your scalloped potatoes. Diced carrots, celery, or green beans are all good additions.

Tip 6: Top your scalloped potatoes with a crispy breadcrumb topping. This will give them a nice crunch.

Tip 7: Serve your scalloped potatoes with a dollop of sour cream or applesauce. This will add a little bit of tanginess and sweetness.

Tip 8: Leftover scalloped potatoes can be reheated in the oven or microwave. They can also be frozen for later.

Ham and scalloped potatoes are a delicious and versatile dish. They can be served as a main course or a side dish. They are also a great way to use up leftover ham. So next time you are looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, give ham and scalloped potatoes a try.

Key Aspects of Ham and Scalloped Potato Recipes

Ham and scalloped potato recipes are a classic comfort food dish. They are made with simple ingredients and can be easily customized to your own taste. Here are eight key aspects to consider when making ham and scalloped potato recipes:

Ham: The type of ham you use will affect the flavor of your dish. You can use smoked ham, honey-baked ham, or even leftover ham.
Potatoes: The type of potatoes you use will also affect the texture of your dish. Russet potatoes are a good choice for scalloped potatoes because they are starchy and will hold their shape well. Yukon Gold potatoes are another good option because they are creamy and have a slightly sweet flavor.
Cheese: The type of cheese you use will add flavor and richness to your dish. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for scalloped potatoes, but you can also use Gruyre, Parmesan, or any other type of cheese that you like.
Milk: The milk will help to bind the ingredients together and create a creamy sauce. You can use whole milk, low-fat milk, or even non-fat milk.
Butter: The butter will add flavor and richness to your dish. You can use unsalted butter or salted butter, depending on your preference.
Seasonings: You can season your ham and scalloped potato recipe with any herbs and spices that you like. Some popular choices include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Cooking method: You can cook your ham and scalloped potato recipe in the oven or on the stovetop. If you cook it in the oven, you will need to bake it for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you cook it on the stovetop, you will need to simmer it for 30-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce has thickened.
Serving suggestions: Ham and scalloped potato recipes can be served as a main course or a side dish. They can be served with a variety of sides, such as green beans, corn, or salad.

These are just a few of the key aspects to consider when making ham and scalloped potato recipes. By experimenting with different ingredients and cooking methods, you can create a dish that is perfect for your own taste.

Ham

The type of ham you use in your ham and scalloped potato recipe will have a significant impact on the flavor of the dish. Here are a few of the most popular types of ham and how they will affect the flavor of your scalloped potatoes:

Smoked ham: Smoked ham has a rich, smoky flavor that will add depth and complexity to your scalloped potatoes. It is a good choice for those who like a more robust flavor.
Honey-baked ham: Honey-baked ham has a sweet and slightly tangy flavor that will add a touch of sweetness to your scalloped potatoes. It is a good choice for those who like a sweeter flavor.
Leftover ham: Leftover ham is a great way to use up leftovers and add flavor to your scalloped potatoes. The flavor of the leftover ham will vary depending on the type of ham you used, but it will generally add a savory and salty flavor to your scalloped potatoes.

Ultimately, the best type of ham to use in your scalloped potatoes is the type that you like the best. So experiment with different types of ham until you find one that you love.

Potatoes

The type of potatoes you use in your ham and scalloped potato recipe will have a significant impact on the texture of the dish. Here are a few of the most popular types of potatoes and how they will affect the texture of your scalloped potatoes:

Russet potatoes: Russet potatoes are a good choice for scalloped potatoes because they are starchy and will hold their shape well. They are also a good choice for frying and baking.
Yukon Gold potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are another good choice for scalloped potatoes because they are creamy and have a slightly sweet flavor. They are also a good choice for roasting and mashing.
Red potatoes: Red potatoes are a good choice for scalloped potatoes if you want a dish with a slightly firmer texture. They are also a good choice for boiling and roasting.
New potatoes: New potatoes are a good choice for scalloped potatoes if you want a dish with a delicate flavor and texture. They are also a good choice for boiling and steaming.

Ultimately, the best type of potato to use in your ham and scalloped potato recipe is the type that you like the best. So experiment with different types of potatoes until you find one that you love.

Cheese

The type of cheese you use in your ham and scalloped potato recipe will have a significant impact on the flavor and richness of the dish. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for scalloped potatoes because it is a sharp, flavorful cheese that melts well. However, you can also use other types of cheese, such as Gruyre, Parmesan, or even a combination of cheeses, to create a unique and delicious dish.

Flavor: The type of cheese you use will have a significant impact on the flavor of your ham and scalloped potato recipe. Sharp cheeses, such as cheddar and Gruyre, will add a more robust flavor to the dish, while milder cheeses, such as Parmesan, will add a more subtle flavor.
Texture: The type of cheese you use will also affect the texture of your ham and scalloped potato recipe. Hard cheeses, such as Parmesan, will melt less than soft cheeses, such as cheddar. This can create a different texture in the dish, with hard cheeses adding a more chewy texture and soft cheeses adding a more creamy texture.
Melting properties: The melting properties of the cheese you use will also affect the texture of your ham and scalloped potato recipe. Cheeses that melt well, such as cheddar and Gruyre, will create a smooth and creamy sauce. Cheeses that do not melt as well, such as Parmesan, will create a more textured sauce.
Personal preference: Ultimately, the best type of cheese to use in your ham and scalloped potato recipe is the type that you like the best. So experiment with different types of cheese until you find one that you love.

By understanding the different types of cheese and how they will affect the flavor, texture, and melting properties of your ham and scalloped potato recipe, you can create a dish that is perfect for your own taste.

Milk

Milk is an essential ingredient in ham and scalloped potato recipes because it helps to bind the ingredients together and create a creamy sauce. The milk also helps to add flavor and richness to the dish. Whole milk is the best choice for a creamy and flavorful sauce, but you can also use low-fat or non-fat milk if you prefer. The type of milk you use will not significantly affect the flavor of the dish, so feel free to use whatever type of milk you have on hand.

Here is a simple recipe for ham and scalloped potatoes:

Ingredients:
- 1 ham steak, cooked and diced
- 1 pound potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large bowl, combine the ham, potatoes, onion, cheddar cheese, milk, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Bake for 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

This recipe is a classic comfort food that is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. The combination of ham, potatoes, and cheese is irresistible. Plus, it is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste.

Butter

Butter is an essential ingredient in ham and scalloped potato recipes because it adds flavor and richness to the dish. Butter also helps to create a creamy sauce that binds the ingredients together. You can use unsalted butter or salted butter, depending on your preference. If you are using unsalted butter, you may want to add a little bit of salt to the dish to taste. Butter is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different ways in ham and scalloped potato recipes. Here are a few ideas:

Sauting vegetables: Butter can be used to saut vegetables, such as onions, celery, and carrots, before adding them to the casserole dish. This will help to add flavor and depth to the dish.
Browning the ham: If you are using leftover ham, you can brown it in a skillet with a little bit of butter before adding it to the casserole dish. This will help to add flavor and color to the dish.
Creating a roux: A roux is a mixture of equal parts flour and butter that is used to thicken sauces. A roux can be used to thicken the sauce in a ham and scalloped potato recipe, making it richer and more flavorful.
Topping the casserole: Before baking the casserole, you can top it with a mixture of bread crumbs and melted butter. This will help to create a crispy topping that adds flavor and texture to the dish.

Butter is a key ingredient in ham and scalloped potato recipes because it adds flavor, richness, and texture to the dish. By understanding the different ways that butter can be used in this recipe, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that your family and friends will love.

Seasonings

Seasonings are an essential part of any ham and scalloped potato recipe. They add flavor, depth, and complexity to the dish. There are many different seasonings that you can use, so feel free to experiment until you find a combination that you like.

Salt and pepper: Salt and pepper are the most basic seasonings, but they are also two of the most important. Salt enhances the flavor of the other ingredients, while pepper adds a bit of spice. You can add salt and pepper to taste, but a good rule of thumb is to start with 1/2 teaspoon of each per pound of potatoes.
Garlic powder and onion powder: Garlic powder and onion powder are two other popular seasonings for ham and scalloped potatoes. They add a savory flavor to the dish. You can use 1/4 teaspoon of each per pound of potatoes.
Other seasonings: There are many other seasonings that you can use in your ham and scalloped potato recipe, such as paprika, thyme, rosemary, and sage. Feel free to experiment until you find a combination that you like.

Seasonings are a great way to add flavor and personality to your ham and scalloped potato recipe. So don’t be afraid to experiment until you find a combination that you love.

Cooking method

The cooking method you choose for your ham and scalloped potato recipe will affect the texture and flavor of the dish. Baking the dish in the oven will result in a more tender and flavorful dish, while simmering the dish on the stovetop will result in a more dense and less flavorful dish.

Oven-baked ham and scalloped potatoes: This is the most popular cooking method for ham and scalloped potatoes. The potatoes are cooked in a creamy sauce with ham, cheese, and seasonings. The dish is baked in the oven until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Stovetop ham and scalloped potatoes: This cooking method is less popular than oven-baking, but it is a good option if you are short on time. The potatoes are cooked in a skillet with ham, cheese, and seasonings. The dish is simmered until the potatoes are tender and the sauce has thickened.

Ultimately, the best cooking method for your ham and scalloped potato recipe is the one that you prefer. If you are looking for a more tender and flavorful dish, oven-baking is the best option. If you are short on time, stovetop cooking is a good alternative.

Serving suggestions

Serving suggestions are an important part of any recipe, as they provide ideas for how to serve the dish and what to pair it with. In the case of ham and scalloped potato recipes, the serving suggestions are particularly important because the dish can be served in a variety of ways.

One of the most popular ways to serve ham and scalloped potatoes is as a main course. This is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. When serving ham and scalloped potatoes as a main course, it is important to pair it with a side dish that will complement the flavors of the dish. Some good side dishes for ham and scalloped potatoes include green beans, corn, or salad.

Ham and scalloped potatoes can also be served as a side dish. This is a good option if you are serving a larger meal with multiple dishes. When serving ham and scalloped potatoes as a side dish, it is important to choose a side dish that will not overpower the flavors of the dish. Some good side dishes for ham and scalloped potatoes include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or bread.

No matter how you choose to serve ham and scalloped potatoes, it is sure to be a delicious and satisfying meal. The combination of ham, potatoes, and cheese is a classic flavor combination that is loved by people of all ages.

Ham and scalloped potato recipes are a classic comfort food dish that is enjoyed by people of all ages.

The dish is made with thinly sliced potatoes that are layered in a casserole dish with cooked ham, cheese, and a creamy sauce. The casserole is then baked in the oven until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

There are many different variations of ham and scalloped potato recipes, but the basic ingredients and cooking method remain the same. The dish can be made with different types of potatoes, ham, cheese, and sauce. Some popular variations include adding vegetables such as onions, celery, or carrots to the casserole. Others like to add herbs and spices to the sauce for extra flavor.

Ham and scalloped potato recipes are a popular choice for family meals and holiday gatherings. The dish is easy to make and can be tailored to fit any taste. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

FAQs about Ham and Scalloped Potato Recipes

Ham and scalloped potato recipes are a classic comfort food dish that is enjoyed by people of all ages. However, there are some common questions that people have about this dish. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:

Question 1: What type of potatoes are best for scalloped potatoes?

Answer: Russet potatoes are the best choice for scalloped potatoes because they are starchy and will hold their shape well. Yukon Gold potatoes are another good option because they are creamy and have a slightly sweet flavor.

Question 2: What type of ham should I use?

Answer: You can use any type of ham you like, but smoked ham or honey-baked ham will add more flavor to the dish.

Question 3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Answer: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and then bake it before serving.

Question 4: What are some tips for making the best scalloped potatoes?

Answer: Here are a few tips for making the best scalloped potatoes:

Use a sharp knife to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly.
Don’t overcook the potatoes. They should be tender but still have a little bit of bite to them.
Use a flavorful cheese. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can also use Gruyre, Parmesan, or any other type of cheese that you like.
Don’t skimp on the butter. Butter adds flavor and richness to the dish.

Question 5: What are some serving suggestions for ham and scalloped potatoes?

Answer: Ham and scalloped potatoes can be served as a main course or a side dish. They can be served with a variety of sides, such as green beans, corn, or salad.

Question 6: How can I store leftover ham and scalloped potatoes?

Answer: Leftover ham and scalloped potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about ham and scalloped potato recipes. If you have any other questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.

Happy cooking!

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Conclusion

Ham and scalloped potato recipes are a classic comfort food dish that is enjoyed by people of all ages. The dish is easy to make and can be tailored to fit any taste. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

In this article, we have explored the different aspects of ham and scalloped potato recipes, including the ingredients, cooking methods, and serving suggestions. We have also answered some of the most frequently asked questions about this dish.

We hope that this article has given you a better understanding of ham and scalloped potato recipes. If you have any other questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.

Happy cooking!