Description
Ina Garten’s scalloped potatoes and ham recipe blends creamy layers of potatoes with savory ham in a comforting classic. Cheese, cream, and herbs meld together, creating a hearty dish guests will crave at family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 pounds (1.36 kg) white potatoes, sliced 1/8 inch thick
- 2 cups (470 ml) cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup (240 ml) sharp cheddar cheese
- 3 cups (710 ml) milk
- ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- ⅓ cup (76 g) butter
- ⅓ cup (40 g) flour
- 1 small onion, diced
- ½ tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat oven to 350°F and generously grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Onion Foundation: Sauté diced onions in melted butter over medium-low heat until translucent, creating a fragrant base for the sauce.
- Sauce Building: Dust onions with thyme and flour, stirring continuously to develop a rich, aromatic roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Liquid Integration: Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, creating a silky smooth sauce seasoned with salt and black pepper, briefly bringing to a gentle boil.
- Layering Technique: Construct three alternating layers in the baking dish, carefully arranging sliced potatoes, diced ham, and creamy sauce to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Initial Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50 minutes, allowing potatoes to become tender and ingredients to meld together harmoniously.
- Final Browning: Uncover the dish and continue baking for an additional 25-35 minutes until potatoes are completely cooked and the surface achieves a golden-brown, crispy texture.
- Finishing Touch: Optional cheese can be sprinkled during the last 15 minutes of baking for enhanced richness and a luxurious finish.
- Serving Preparation: Let the casserole rest for 15 minutes to set the layers, making it easier to portion and serve.
- Presentation: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm, showcasing the delectable combination of potatoes and ham.
Notes
- Layer Strategically: Distribute potatoes, ham, and sauce evenly to ensure each bite contains balanced flavors and textures.
- Potato Precision: Slice potatoes uniformly to guarantee consistent cooking and prevent uneven tenderness.
- Sauce Smoothness: Whisk continuously while adding milk to prevent lumps and create a silky, creamy sauce.
- Resting Ritual: Let the casserole rest for 15 minutes after baking to allow layers to set and enhance overall dish stability.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 432
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg