Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham – A Creamy, Comforting Family Favorite

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is the kind of homemade comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. Made with tender slices of potatoes, savory chunks of ham, and layers of melted cheese covered in a rich, creamy sauce, this classic casserole is hearty, flavorful, and wonderfully filling.

Whether you have leftover holiday ham to use up or simply want to prepare a delicious family dinner, this recipe is an excellent choice. Everything comes together in one baking dish, making it easy to prepare ahead of time and serve on busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or special family gatherings.

The best part is the combination of textures and flavors. The potatoes become soft and tender as they bake, the ham adds a delicious salty and smoky taste, and the cheese creates a golden, bubbly topping that makes every serving irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy: A homemade cheese sauce coats every layer of potatoes and ham.

• Perfect for leftovers: It’s a wonderful way to transform leftover cooked ham into a satisfying meal.

• Family-friendly: The familiar combination of potatoes, ham, and cheese makes this dish a favorite for all ages.

• Easy to prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this casserole beginner-friendly.

• Great for meal preparation: You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here is everything you need to prepare this delicious cheesy potato casserole.

For the potato and ham layers:

• 2 ½ pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

• 2 cups cooked ham, diced into small cubes

• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ small onion, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the baking dish

For the creamy cheese sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups whole milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

For the topping:

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish generously with butter or nonstick cooking spray. This helps prevent the potatoes and cheese sauce from sticking to the bottom and sides.

Set the dish aside while you prepare the ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes and Ham

Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer, cut them into thin, even slices, approximately ⅛ inch thick.

Keeping the slices similar in thickness is important because it allows the potatoes to cook evenly throughout the casserole.

Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water if you are preparing them ahead of time. Before assembling the casserole, drain them thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

Next, cut the cooked ham into small bite-sized cubes. Finely chop the onion and set everything aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Place a medium saucepan over medium heat and melt the 3 tablespoons of butter.

Add the flour and whisk continuously for approximately 1–2 minutes. This creates a roux, which helps thicken the sauce and gives it a smooth, creamy consistency.

Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Add the heavy cream and continue stirring until the mixture begins to thicken.

Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and Dijon mustard if using.

Reduce the heat to low and add the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and velvety.

Remove the saucepan from the heat. Avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cheese, as excessive heat can make it grainy.