Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham: A Leftover Ham Rescue Mission!

Looking for a way to use up that leftover ham? Look no further than this amazing Scalloped Potatoes and Ham casserole! It’s the perfect marriage of creamy potatoes and savory ham, guaranteed to satisfy the whole family.

Don’t Worry, It’s Easy!

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients to whip up this comforting dish. While russet potatoes are traditionally used for scalloped potatoes, any type will work! I often opt for thin-skinned white potatoes and skip the peeling altogether for a time-saving trick.

Two Steps to Casserole Heaven

1. The Magic of White Sauce: We start with a roux, which is simply a fancy way of saying butter and flour cooked together. This forms the base of our creamy white sauce. Feel free to add shredded cheese for a richer, Potatoes Au Gratin-like experience. Here’s how to do it:

• Sauté some diced onions in butter until softened.
• Stir in the flour and cook for a minute.
• Reduce heat and gradually whisk in your chosen liquid (milk, broth, or a combination) until the sauce thickens up.

2. Layer Up and Bake:

• Slice your potatoes, dice the leftover ham (honey glazed or brown sugar glazed, both work!), and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a baking dish, layer the potatoes, ham, and white sauce. Cover it up and bake for a while.
• For an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top for the last 15 minutes of baking.

3. Rest, Serve, and Enjoy!

Just like lasagna, let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the potatoes to finish softening and the sauce to set, preventing a runny mess.

The Perfect Partners for Your Casserole

This hearty dish is filling enough to be a main course on its own. To complement the creamy richness, pair it with something fresh and green. Steamed broccoli or roasted green beans with a simple lemon or balsamic vinegar dressing are excellent choices.

Wine Not?

Having guests? Elevate the meal by serving wine! Don’t get stressed about red or white – for comfort food like this, both work! A slightly sweet white wine with good acidity complements the creamy potatoes and ham perfectly. Consider a Riesling, Moscato, or Lambrusco.

So there you have it! This easy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham casserole is a delicious way to use up leftover ham and create a crowd-pleasing meal.

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