Scalloped Potatoes With Ham And Cheese Sauce

A classic breakfast casserole side dish, scalloped potatoes is made even more delicious with ham and a luscious cheese sauce such as in this easy potato recipe. Not an everyday fare, this rich dish is ideal for special occasions served with roast chicken or turkey, grilled steaks or fish, or smoked ham or a lamb dish. Instead of the usual mashed potatoes or French fries, make dinner extra-special by making this simple version of scalloped potatoes.

Ingredients:

5 or 6 large potatoes
1 cup cooked ham, thinly sliced or cubed
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup flour
2 cup skim milk
3/4 cup American or cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tsp. mustard

Preparation:

1 .Peel potatoes and cut into slices about 1/2-inch thick.
2. Place potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with water. Over high heat, boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about ten minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
4. Prepare cheese sauce: Put olive oil in a medium-sized sauce pan. Heat oil over medium temperature for one or two minutes. Stir in the flour. Cook for a minute. Stir in milk. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and bubbles. Add cheese and mustard and stir until the cheese melts. Remove from heat.
5. Pour a layer of cheese sauce into the bottom of a large casserole dish. Add a layer of potatoes and then one of ham. Cover with cheese sauce. Continue layering, ending with cheese sauce on top.
6. Cover with a foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking until top layer of cheese browns slightly, for about another ten minutes.