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Ina Garten Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe

Ina Garten Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham is a baked casserole featuring thinly sliced potatoes layered with cooked ham and smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Ina Garten’s take on this classic dish is simple yet luxurious, making it a go-to recipe for special occasions or cozy meals.

Ingredients

  • Russet potatoes: 2 pounds, peeled and thinly sliced.
  • Cooked ham: 2 cups, diced.
  • Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons.
  • All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup.
  • Whole milk: 2 cups.
  • Heavy cream: 1 cup.
  • Gruyere cheese: 1 1/2 cups, shredded.
  • Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated.
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon.
  • Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground.
  • Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon, freshly grated (optional).
  • Fresh thyme (optional): 1 teaspoon, chopped.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the cheese sauce

  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in the Gruyere, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 3: Layer the potatoes and ham

  • Arrange one-third of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle one-third of the diced ham over the potatoes, followed by one-third of the cheese sauce. Repeat this process for two more layers, finishing with the cheese sauce on top.

Step 4: Bake the casserole

  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest and serve

  • Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.