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Cozy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Bake Easy Easter Dinner Recipe

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A comforting and easy scalloped potatoes and ham bake featuring layers of tender potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for Easter or any cozy occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups (300g) cooked ham, diced
  • 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons (24g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (480ml) whole milk or half-and-half
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 to 1½ cups (100-150g) shredded Gruyère or sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme or parsley, a few sprigs chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. Slice the potatoes about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick using a mandoline or sharp knife. Rinse in cold water to remove excess starch and pat dry.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Whisk in the flour and stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste, creating a roux.
  5. Gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.
  6. Season the sauce with Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Layer the casserole by arranging a layer of potato slices in the baking dish, overlapping slightly. Sprinkle a third of the diced ham over the potatoes, then pour a third of the sauce evenly on top. Repeat layering two more times, finishing with sauce.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top layer.
  9. Bake uncovered for 60-75 minutes, or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is golden and bubbling.
  10. Let the bake rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.

Notes

If the top browns too quickly but potatoes are not tender, cover loosely with foil and continue baking. Use a fork to check doneness rather than relying solely on time. Let the bake rest before serving to set and slice cleaner. For gluten-free, substitute flour with gluten-free blend or cornstarch (use half the amount).

Nutrition

Keywords: scalloped potatoes, ham bake, Easter dinner, comfort food, creamy potatoes, cheesy casserole, leftover ham recipe

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/cozy-scalloped-potatoes-and-ham-bake-easy-easter-dinner-recipe/