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This hearty casserole combines creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, savory ham, and a rich cheese sauce for a flavorful dish that’s ideal for family dinners, holiday celebrations, or meal prep. The caramelized onions and blend of cheddar and Gruyere cheeses elevate this classic comfort food, making it both delicious and versatile.

Ingredients

Potatoes:
- 6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 yellow onion, sliced into thin strings
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups half and half or milk
- ¾ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon sage
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded (reserve ½ cup for topping)
- ½ cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
Topping/Garnish:
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, roughly chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- Shred the cheddar and Gruyere cheese. Let them come to room temperature. Reserve ½ cup of cheddar for topping.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly to form a paste. Cook for 1 minute.
- Warm the half and half or milk in the microwave for 30 seconds to temper it, then add it to the saucepan, stirring to combine.
- Add the rosemary, oregano, thyme, and sage. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Gradually mix in 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese and the Gruyere until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the diced ham, reserving some for topping if desired.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Lay ⅓ of the sliced potatoes in a single overlapping layer at the bottom of the dish. Lightly season with salt and pepper if desired.
- Spoon ⅓ of the cheese sauce over the potatoes and spread it evenly with a pastry brush to coat them completely.
- Repeat the layering process two more times, using all the potatoes and cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle the top with the reserved cheddar cheese and any extra diced ham.
Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- If making ahead, let the dish cool completely, then freeze or refrigerate. (See tips below.)
- Remove the foil, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top, and reduce the oven temperature to 375°F. Bake uncovered for an additional 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting Classic: Combines creamy cheese, tender potatoes, and savory ham for a hearty, satisfying dish.
Versatile: Perfect as a main course or a side dish for gatherings, holidays, or weeknight dinners.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and baked when needed.

Tips

Slice Potatoes Evenly: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices that cook evenly.
Caramelize Onions: Take your time cooking the onions for maximum flavor.
Layering: Ensure each potato layer is fully coated with cheese sauce to prevent discoloration and enhance flavor.
Freezing Instructions: Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Variations and Substitutions

Cheese Options: Swap Gruyere for Swiss or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Meat Alternatives: Use cooked bacon, sausage, or turkey instead of ham.
Herbs and Spices: Customize with smoked paprika, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper for added depth.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato? Yes, russet potatoes or red potatoes work well, but Yukon Gold offers the creamiest texture.

How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What if I don’t have a mandoline slicer? Carefully slice the potatoes thinly and evenly with a sharp knife.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Serve as a side dish with roasted chicken, pork, or beef.
Add crusty bread to soak up the creamy cheese sauce.

This cheesy scalloped potatoes and ham casserole is a comforting crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion!