This Ham Scalloped Potatoes Pioneer Woman recipe takes classic comfort food to the next level. Inspired by Ree Drummond’s signature style, this dish is quick, easy, and bursting with creamy, cheesy, savory goodness thanks to the generous addition of ham. It’s the perfect hearty meal your family will absolutely adore.
Pioneer Woman’s Scalloped Potatoes and Ham: A Family Favorite
When it comes to satisfying, crowd-pleasing dishes, Pioneer Woman’s scalloped potatoes and ham truly reigns supreme. This isn’t just meat and potatoes; it’s an elevated potato casserole that’s destined to become a cherished family tradition. Imagine layers of tender potatoes enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce, studded with flavorful ham – pure comfort in every bite!
If you’re searching for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering, or a delightful way to repurpose leftover holiday ham, look no further than this incredibly delicious and effortlessly easy Ham and Potato Casserole. It’s the epitome of home-style cooking, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or simply indulging in a cozy night in.
This timeless casserole, a harmonious blend of creamy scalloped potatoes and succulent diced ham, is a star attraction at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter feasts. We’re confident this will be the most delectable ham and scalloped potatoes you’ve ever experienced. It’s a step above the rest, delivering unparalleled flavor and texture.
What truly distinguishes this creamy, cheesy side dish is its remarkable simplicity. Unlike many complicated recipes, there’s no need for fussy roux-making or pre-cooking the sauce. This streamlined approach makes it an ideal choice for busy holidays when time is precious. The luxuriously velvety sauce is created by simply whisking together half-and-half, heavy cream, flour, and a hint of black pepper. Let the oven work its magic to thicken it to perfection!
Beyond its crowd-pleasing appeal, this casserole is a brilliant way to transform leftover ham from your festive celebrations into a brand-new culinary delight. The ham infuses a savory, subtly salty note that beautifully complements the creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes. No leftover ham? No problem! Ham steaks are a fantastic and readily available alternative to keep this recipe on your menu any time of year.
So, if you’re on the hunt for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and incredibly tasty, give this easy, classic ham and potato casserole a try. The irresistible combination of tender potatoes, luscious sauce, and savory ham will undoubtedly secure its place as a beloved favorite, not just during the holiday season, but all year round. It’s a true Pioneer Woman-inspired dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table.
While you’re here, be sure to explore other Pioneer Woman favorites by Ree Drummond. Her easy chocolate pie and Pioneer Woman mac and cheese recipes are absolute must-tries and exemplify her knack for creating approachable and delicious home cooking.
Overhead view of a fully garnished scalloped potatoes and ham casserole in a white dish.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Ham Scalloped Potatoes
Potatoes: We recommend russet potatoes for this Pioneer Woman ham scalloped potatoes recipe. Their high starch content is key to achieving that wonderfully tender and creamy texture we all crave in a good scalloped potato casserole. Russets have a mild, neutral flavor profile which allows them to perfectly absorb and complement the other delicious ingredients in this dish. They truly are the ideal potato for this casserole.
Yukon Gold potatoes are another excellent choice and work beautifully as a substitute or blend with russets. However, we advise against using waxy potatoes like red potatoes. Waxy varieties tend to release too much water during baking, which can affect the creamy sauce consistency.
Ham: Diced cooked ham is the star protein in this casserole, adding a rich and savory flavor dimension, while also providing a satisfying heartiness. The slightly salty character of the ham creates a delightful balance with the creamy sauce and tender potatoes, enhancing the overall flavor profile. You can easily use leftover ham from a holiday roast or opt for convenient cubed ham steaks from the grocery store.
Onion: Sautéed onions are an essential flavor base for this casserole. They contribute a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that permeates the entire dish. The onions perfectly complement both the ham and potatoes, creating a harmonious blend of savory and sweet notes.
Butter: Butter plays a dual role in this recipe. It’s used to sauté the onions and ham, infusing them with richness, and also to grease the casserole dish, preventing sticking and adding a subtle buttery flavor to the edges of the casserole.
Half-and-Half and Heavy Cream: This dynamic dairy duo is the foundation of our luscious, creamy sauce that binds the casserole together. The half-and-half provides a touch of lightness, preventing the sauce from becoming too heavy, while the heavy cream is responsible for that signature rich and velvety texture that makes scalloped potatoes so irresistible.
Flour: A small amount of all-purpose flour is whisked into the cream mixture. This crucial step helps to thicken the sauce beautifully as the casserole bakes in the oven, ensuring a perfectly rich and satisfying consistency that coats the potatoes and ham.
Black Pepper: A simple touch of ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and depth to the entire dish. It accentuates the savory flavors of the ham, potatoes, and creamy sauce, bringing all the elements together in perfect harmony.
Cheese: A generous blend of freshly shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese is used for its fantastic flavor combination and melting properties. The sharp cheddar provides a tangy, bold flavor that cuts through the richness of the cream sauce, while the Monterey Jack adds a smooth, mild flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth creamy texture. Together, they create the ultimate cheesy topping and layers within the casserole.
Labeled ingredients for Pioneer Woman scalloped potatoes and ham, including potatoes, ham, cheese, and cream.
How To Make Pioneer Woman Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Get Started: Begin by preheating your oven to the specified temperature. Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This prevents sticking and adds a touch of flavor. Set the prepared dish aside while you prepare the ingredients. (For detailed, printable instructions, please refer to the recipe card located at the end of this post.)
Sauté the Onions: Place a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the butter to the hot skillet and swirl it around until it’s melted and coats the bottom of the pan. Add the diced onions to the melted butter and sauté them until they just begin to soften and turn translucent. This step releases their sweet aroma and mellows their flavor.
Butter melting in a skillet followed by diced onions being added to sauté for Pioneer Woman ham scalloped potatoes.
Sauté the Ham: Add the diced ham to the skillet with the softened onions. Continue to sauté until the ham is heated through and slightly browned in spots. This enhances the savory flavor of the ham and warms it up before layering into the casserole. Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the sautéed ham and onions to a separate bowl. Set aside for later.
Onions sautéing in a pan before diced ham is added for Pioneer Woman scalloped potatoes and ham.
Warm the Cream Mixture: In a microwave-safe container or bowl, combine the half-and-half and heavy cream. Microwave the mixture briefly, just until it’s warmed through and no longer cold. This helps the flour incorporate smoothly and prevents the sauce from becoming grainy. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and ground black pepper into the warmed cream mixture. Whisk continuously until the flour is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and completely combined. Ensure there are no lumps of flour remaining.
Flour and pepper being added to a milk mixture and whisked together for scalloped potatoes and ham.
Slice the Potatoes: Using a mandoline set to the thinnest slicing setting, carefully slice all of the potatoes. Discard the very first and last slices of each potato, as these are often uneven. Thin, even slices are crucial for ensuring the potatoes cook through uniformly in the casserole.
Potato ends being discarded and potatoes sliced with a mandoline slicer over a baking sheet for scalloped potatoes and ham.
Layer the Ingredients: Begin assembling the casserole by placing a portion of the thinly sliced potato slices in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Slightly overlap the potato slices to create a shingled layer. Evenly spread a portion of the sautéed ham and onions over the layer of potatoes. Sprinkle a portion of the shredded cheese evenly over the ham and onion mixture. Re-whisk the cream mixture to ensure it’s smooth before each addition. Then, carefully spread a portion of the cream mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish.
Cheese and cream mixture being added to layers in a casserole dish for scalloped potatoes and ham.
Repeat Layering: Repeat the layering process two more times, using the remaining potato slices, ham and onion mixture, cheese, and cream sauce. Ensure you end with a final layer of the creamy sauce generously spread over the top layer of cheese.
Additional layers being added to form the ham and potato casserole for Pioneer Woman scalloped potatoes and ham.
Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Baking it covered initially helps the potatoes steam and cook through evenly. Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for the specified time, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. After the initial baking time, carefully remove the aluminum foil. Continue to bake uncovered until the casserole is heated through, bubbly around the edges, and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
A freshly baked scalloped potatoes and ham casserole in a white casserole dish.
Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the Pioneer Woman ham scalloped potatoes casserole from the oven and let it rest for a short period before serving. Allowing it to rest for about 10 minutes allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together beautifully. Then, cut the casserole into squares and serve hot. (Refer to the recipe card below for complete written instructions, including precise ingredient measurements, baking times, and helpful pro tips.)
Pro Tips for Perfect Pioneer Woman Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
- Freshly Shredded Cheese is Key: Always use freshly shredded cheese, especially for the cheddar and Monterey Jack in this recipe. Pre-shredded cheeses are often coated in cellulose, an anti-caking agent, which can prevent them from melting as smoothly and create a slightly gritty texture in your sauce. Freshly shredded cheese melts beautifully and provides the best flavor and creamy texture.
- Mandoline for Even Slices: Using a mandoline is highly recommended for slicing the potatoes thinly and uniformly. This ensures even cooking throughout the casserole and a more desirable texture. Consistent thickness is essential for scalloped potatoes to cook properly.
- Prevent Potato Discoloration: If you need to slice the potatoes in advance, it’s crucial to prevent them from oxidizing and turning brown or gray. To maintain their color, immediately place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water as you slice them. When you’re ready to layer them in the casserole, make sure to drain them thoroughly and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Excess water can make the sauce thin.
- Parboil for Speedier Cooking: If you’re short on time or want to reduce the overall baking time, you can parboil the potato slices before layering them in the casserole. Boil the sliced potatoes in lightly salted water for about 5 minutes, just until they are slightly softened but not fully cooked. Drain them well and then proceed with layering and baking as directed.
- Resting is Essential: It’s important to allow the baked casserole to rest for at least 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting period is crucial as it allows the creamy sauce to thicken and set properly. It also allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful Pioneer Woman ham scalloped potatoes casserole.
Scalloped Potatoes Covered or Uncovered: Which is Faster?
Scalloped potatoes will cook faster when initially covered with aluminum foil. Covering the casserole helps to trap the heat and steam inside, which efficiently cooks the potatoes through. The steam created under the foil ensures the potatoes become tender more quickly. After the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork (usually after about 45 minutes of baking covered), remove the foil to allow the top to become golden brown and bubbly during the final baking time.
Close-up of the inside texture of Pioneer Woman scalloped potatoes and ham casserole, showing layers of potatoes, ham, and cheese.
How to Tell When Scalloped Potatoes Are Done
You’ll know your Pioneer Woman ham scalloped potatoes are perfectly done when several indicators are present:
- Potato Tenderness: The potatoes should be tender and easily pierced with a fork or knife without resistance. This is the primary sign that they are fully cooked.
- Sauce Thickness: The creamy sauce should be thick, bubbly around the edges, and no longer thin or runny. It should have a rich and creamy consistency.
- Cheese Appearance: The cheese topping should be completely melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown in spots. It should look visually appealing and melted throughout.
Can You Slice Potatoes in Advance for Scalloped Potatoes?
Yes, you absolutely can slice potatoes ahead of time for Pioneer Woman scalloped potatoes. However, it’s essential to store them properly to prevent discoloration. Once sliced, immediately submerge the potato slices in a bowl of cold water to which you can add a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar (optional, but helps prevent browning). Store the bowl of potatoes submerged in water in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. You can keep them this way for up to 24 hours. Before using, drain the potatoes thoroughly and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Removing excess water is crucial to prevent a watery sauce in your casserole.
Side shot of a Pioneer Woman scalloped potatoes and ham casserole in a dish, showcasing gooey cheese layers.
Make-Ahead Instructions for Ham Scalloped Potatoes
This Pioneer Woman ham scalloped potatoes casserole is a fantastic make-ahead dish, perfect for simplifying holiday meal preparation or potlucks. You can fully assemble the unbaked casserole, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, it’s best to let the casserole sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the preheated oven. This helps it bake more evenly. You may need to add a little extra baking time (around 10-15 minutes) to ensure it’s heated through and the potatoes are tender, especially if baking directly from the fridge.
Freezing Instructions for Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Good news! You can also freeze the cooked Pioneer Woman ham scalloped potatoes casserole for longer storage. Allow the baked casserole to cool completely to room temperature first. Once cooled, wrap it very tightly in a double layer of plastic wrap, ensuring all surfaces are covered. Then, wrap it again in a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn. Place the wrapped casserole in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, bake it in a preheated oven until heated through and bubbly, which may take about 30-45 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the casserole.
A slice of Pioneer Woman scalloped potatoes and ham casserole served with a side salad on a white plate.
Slow Cooker Instructions for Scalloped Potatoes and Ham (Slightly Different Sauce)
For a slightly different approach and a hands-off cooking method, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Note that the sauce will be a bit thinner in the slow cooker version, but still delicious. Omit the flour and half-and-half from the ingredient list for the slow cooker method. Layer the sliced potatoes, sautéed ham and onions, cheese, and heavy cream in the slow cooker insert as instructed for the oven-baked version. Cook on HIGH for approximately 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the cooking time to prevent overcooking. The sauce will naturally thicken slightly as it cooks, but it won’t be as thick as the oven-baked version due to the absence of flour and half-and-half.
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Pinterest pin image for scalloped potatoes and ham, featuring a picture of the casserole and recipe title.More Holiday Recipes
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore our collection of popular holiday recipes! These dishes are all fantastic to serve alongside scalloped potatoes and ham for a complete and memorable holiday meal:
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Pioneer Woman Ham Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 3 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes (washed thoroughly)
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 1 yellow onion (diced, about 1 cup)
- 3 cups diced ham
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
- 1 cup freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese*
- 1 cup freshly shredded Monterey Jack cheese*
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13 inch casserole dish, and set aside.
- Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the butter and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan. Add the onions and sauté until they just start to turn translucent (about 2-3 minutes). Add the ham and sauté until it is heated through (about 3-4 minutes). Remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the ham and onions to a bowl, and set aside.
- Pour the half-and-half and heavy cream into a microwave safe container. Microwave for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes (just enough to remove the chill). Whisk in the flour and black pepper until it’s smooth and fully combined.
- Using a mandoline, set the thickness to the thinnest setting (1/8 inch thickness) and slice all the potatoes (discarding the first slice and the end slice).
- Layer 1/3 of the potato slices in the bottom of the prepared dish, slightly overlapping each other. Then evenly spread 1/3 of the ham and onions over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle 1/3 of the cheese over the ham. Whisk the cream mixture before you add it to the dish each time, then spread 1/3 of the cream mixture over the casserole.
- Repeat this step 2 more times, ending with a layer of the cream sauce over a layer of the cheese. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven until the potatoes are tender (about 45 minutes). After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake until it looks hot and bubbly (20-25 more minutes).
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes so that the sauce has a chance to thicken up, then cut into squares and serve.
Recipe Notes
*It’s important to use freshly grated cheese. Pre-grated cheeses are coated in an anti-caking agent that makes the texture gritty after it melts.
**If you want to speed up the cooking time in the oven, you could boil the potatoes for 5 minutes, drain them, and allow them to cool enough to handle them before assembling the casserole.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size:
1/8 Amount Per Serving: Calories: 615Total Fat: 39.5gCarbohydrates: 41gFiber: 2.7gSugar: 5.5gProtein: 26.9g
Nutrition information isn’t always accurate.
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
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I truly hope you enjoy making and savoring this comforting and delicious ham and potato casserole as much as I do. The delightful combination of tender potatoes, savory ham, and that rich, creamy, cheesy sauce is destined to become a cherished favorite in your household. Happy cooking, and enjoy your Pioneer Woman ham scalloped potatoes!
