There’s something about the creamy layers of cheese and potatoes that make scalloped potatoes a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine the comforting aroma wafting through the kitchen as you prepare this—it’s like nostalgia wrapped in a cheesy blanket. Plus, with all the chatter online lately about quick dishes, this one’s a keeper for any busy weeknight or a slow Sunday afternoon.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then add flour, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper, whisking for about 1 minute.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously. Allow the mixture to thicken over 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until the cheese is fully melted, then set the sauce aside.
- Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes in a single layer at the bottom of a large, oven-safe skillet, keeping them in a fanned-out shape.
- Sprinkle most of the diced ham over the potatoes, reserving a small portion for later topping.
- Pour the prepared cheese sauce over the potatoes and ham. Top with the remaining cheese and reserved ham.
- Cover the skillet with aluminum foil or a lid, then bake in the oven for 70-80 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Broil the dish for 2-3 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly, being careful not to burn it.
- Let the dish cool slightly, then garnish with chopped chives. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds (about 8-10 medium) russet potatoes, rinsed, peeled, and thinly sliced
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup (62.5 g) all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups (735 g) whole milk, room temperature
- 1 cup (113 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
- 1 cup (113 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
- 2 cups (270 g) cooked ham, diced into ¼-inch cubes
- Fresh chives, chopped, for garnish
- Additional kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
FAQ
- Can I make this dish without ham?
- Yes, you can easily omit the ham if you prefer a vegetarian option. Alternatively, you could add the ranch seasoning to a classic Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe for a similar flavor profile.
- How can I prepare Ranch Scalloped Potatoes and Ham in advance?
- You can assemble the dish up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to extend the baking time slightly, particularly if it’s straight from the fridge.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with Ranch Scalloped Potatoes and Ham?
- This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables such as green beans, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots. You can also serve it with coleslaw, dinner rolls, a baguette, focaccia breadsticks, or roasted tomato soup.
- How should I store and reheat leftovers?
- Let the leftovers cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or use a microwave until heated through.
- Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
- Yes, while sharp cheddar and mozzarella are recommended, you can substitute with other cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Colby for different flavor variations.
Tips
- For a creamier cheese sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of whole milk. While whole milk works well, half-and-half will give you an even richer texture.
- If you don’t have a mandoline, try to slice the potatoes as evenly as possible to ensure they cook uniformly. Uneven slices may lead to some potatoes being undercooked.
- To save time on the day of serving, assemble the dish up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Just add a few extra minutes of baking time if you are cooking it straight from the fridge.
- For a variation without ham, you can simply omit it or add the ranch seasoning to a classic cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe for a different twist.
Equipment
- Mandoline Slicer – for evenly slicing the potatoes.
- 12-inch Oven-Safe Skillet – for baking the dish.
- Whisk – for mixing the sauce smoothly.
