This recipe for extra creamy scalloped potatoes and ham is my all-time favorite. This is the super creamy and curdle-free recipe.

When’s the last time you had really good scalloped potatoes and ham?

Chances are, way too long.

Which is why you should plan on making this extra special recipe sometime soon.

What Are Scalloped Potatoes?

Scalloped potatoes are a classic dish made by layering thinly sliced potatoes with a creamy seasoned sauce and baking until golden and bubbling. The potatoes become tender and flavorful, while the sauce forms a rich coating.

When ham is added, scalloped potatoes become heartier and meal-worthy.

But not every scalloped potato recipe is a winner.

Here’s the deal:

There are two things that make these scalloped potatoes great:

• They’re curdle-free
• They’re extra creamy

How To Make Curdle-Free Scalloped Potatoes

One problem that can arise when you’re making scalloped potatoes is curdling milk.

Why do scalloped potatoes curdle? 

The high heat at which they are cooked makes the proteins in the milk separate, or curdle.

But this can be avoided.

Here are two tips for avoiding curdles in scalloped potatoes:

• Use heavy whipping cream: Not only does heavy cream taste rich and indulgent, the higher fat content of the cream helps avoid curdling – something that is more apt to happen if you’re using 2 percent or skim milk.
• Use starchy potatoes: The use of high starch potatoes, like Russet, can help prevent curdling. 

How To Make Extra Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Need another reason to use heavy cream in your scalloped potatoes?

It makes them extra creamy and delicious.

Whole milk or half-and-half will make good scalloped potatoes, but they may curdle – and they won’t be as creamy.

Money-saving tip: Heavy whipping cream can be quite expensive, but overall this dish is quite affordable. Trader Joe’s sells shelf-stable heavy whipping cream for $1.29. I keep a few of these on hand for recipes and coffee.

Recipe Tips

• Got leftover ham? This is the perfect recipe to use it up! You can also make ham salad, Hawaiian pizza or a cobb salad.
• Need to buy ham? Look for a ham steak. I purchased a 1 lb. ham steak for about $3.50 at ALDI.
• Onions add flavor: My mom’s trick for making flavorful scalloped potatoes is to add one chopped onion.
• Slicing the potatoes: You can use a mandolin or food processor with a cutting attachment to slice the potatoes.