Ham And Scalloped Potatoes

It wasn’t supposed to be a cooking day. Just a few friends, a garage full of boxes, and the vague promise of productivity. But by midday, folding gave way to hunger, and the fridge offered up a challenge: two ham steaks, a sack of potatoes, and a forgotten wedge of cheddar.

The goal was simple—feed everyone with what was on hand. As I layered the potatoes and poured the creamy sauce, the kitchen filled with that unmistakable scent of something good baking: warm, savory, and just a little nostalgic. No one expected much, but when it came out of the oven—bubbling, golden, and rich—every plate was wiped clean.

Since then, it’s become a regular in my rotation. No strict rules, just comfort and flexibility. It’s the kind of dish that feels planned even when it’s not.

📋 Ingredients

For the Creamy Sauce

For the Layers

🍽️ Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a deep 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Remove from heat, slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Return to heat and simmer until thickened (5–7 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter. Cook onions for 10–12 minutes until soft and golden. Season lightly.

Step 4: Layer It Up
Spread ⅓ of the sauce in the baking dish.
Layer half the potatoes, onions, ham, and cheese.
Drizzle another ⅓ of the sauce and season lightly.
Repeat with remaining ingredients and top with cheese.

Step 5: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove foil and bake another 30–40 minutes until golden and tender.

Step 6: Rest & Serve
Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and watch it disappear.