Holiday Scalloped Potatoes with Ham and Cheese Sauce

Chef Emma puts a festive spin on comfort food with her holiday scalloped potatoes, layered with savory ham and smothered in a rich cheese sauce. This nostalgic casserole is always the first to disappear at family gatherings—creamy, golden, and perfectly decadent.

Make-ahead friendly, this dish is a must-have for Christmas or Easter, bringing together tender potatoes, smoky ham, and melty cheese in every bite.

Holiday Scalloped Potatoes with Ham and Cheese Sauce

Thin-sliced potatoes layered with smoky ham and baked in a creamy cheese sauce—a crowd-pleasing, make-ahead classic for holiday and family tables.

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Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• – 3 lbs Yukon gold or russet potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
• – 2 cups cooked ham diced (or turkey ham)
• – 3 tbsp butter
• – 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• – 3 cups milk whole or 2%
• – 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese or Gruyère
• – 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• – 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• – 1/2 tsp salt
• – 1/2 tsp black pepper
• – 1/4 cup chopped parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Mandoline or sharp knife, saucepan, whisk, baking dish

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (191°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk; simmer until thickened. Stir in cheese, garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Layer half the potatoes in baking dish, top with half the ham and half the cheese sauce. Repeat layers.
4. Cover with foil and bake 40 minutes. Uncover and bake 20–25 minutes longer, until bubbling and golden.
5. Cool 10–15 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.

Notes

Make without ham for vegetarian. Use part Gruyère for depth. Assemble ahead and bake day of.

Calories: 420 per serving
Protein: 16g per serving

Nutrition Facts

Tips and Variations for Holiday Scalloped Potatoes with Ham and Cheese Sauce

• Substitute turkey ham or leave out meat for a vegetarian version.
• Make ahead: assemble and chill one day in advance, then bake before serving.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or a layer of caramelized onions for depth.
• Try Gruyère or Swiss for a twist on classic cheddar flavor.

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