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Scalloped Potatoes and Spam Bake

Scalloped Potatoes and Spam Bake is a cozy, budget-friendly casserole that turns simple pantry ingredients into a hearty family meal. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with savory pieces of Spam and covered in a creamy, seasoned sauce before being baked until the potatoes are tender and the top is beautifully golden.

The combination works surprisingly well: the potatoes become soft and rich as they absorb the creamy sauce, while the Spam adds salty, savory flavor and a satisfying meaty texture. It is the kind of old-fashioned comfort food that is easy to prepare, filling enough for a weeknight dinner, and perfect for using ingredients you may already have in the kitchen.

Ingredients

6 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
1 can (12 oz) Spam, cut into small cubes or thin strips
1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt, to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, optional
1/2 cup additional shredded cheddar cheese for the topping

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. If you prefer a more rustic casserole, you can leave the skins on, particularly when using thin-skinned Yukon Gold potatoes.

Slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds, approximately 1/8 inch thick. Keeping the slices similar in thickness is important because it helps them cook at the same rate.

Avoid cutting the potatoes too thickly, since thick slices can remain firm in the center while the edges become overcooked.

Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water while you prepare the other ingredients. This helps prevent them from turning brown. Before assembling the casserole, drain them thoroughly and pat them dry.

Step 2: Prepare the Spam

Cut the Spam into small cubes or thin strips, depending on your preference.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the Spam. Cook for approximately 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces become lightly browned around the edges.

Because Spam is already cooked, the purpose of this step is mainly to develop a little extra color and crispness. Browning also gives the meat a deeper savory flavor that works especially well with the creamy potatoes.

Transfer the browned Spam to a plate lined with paper towels. Leave a small amount of the rendered fat in the skillet if desired.

Step 3: Cook the Onion

Add the sliced onion to the same skillet and cook over medium heat for about 3–5 minutes.

Stir occasionally until the onion softens and becomes slightly translucent. You do not need to caramelize it completely; the goal is simply to soften it and bring out its natural sweetness.

Set the onion aside while you prepare the sauce.