Cheesy Scalloped Potato & Ham Stacks Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that somehow feels fancy without all the fuss, you’re going to want to try this Cheesy Scalloped Potato & Ham Stacks Recipe. I absolutely love how these little stacks come together—layers of tender, perfectly seasoned potatoes with salty ham and gooey cheddar all baked right in muffin tins. It’s one of those dishes that feels special enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

What really sold me on this recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you’re making a hearty brunch, a simple dinner, or a festive holiday side, these stacks deliver big on flavor and presentation. Plus, you don’t need any fancy equipment—just a muffin tin and some basic ingredients you probably already have. If you like cheesy, savory meals that bring everyone to the table, this Cheesy Scalloped Potato & Ham Stacks Recipe will quickly become a favorite.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

All these ingredients come together to create rich, layered flavors—the potatoes soak up the creamy herb blend while the ham adds a touch of smoky saltiness. When picking your potatoes, russets work best because they hold their shape and bake beautifully without turning mushy.

• Cooking spray: A quick spritz keeps those stacks from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Finely shredded Parmesan: Adds a nutty depth and helps create a luscious sauce around the potatoes.
• Half-and-half: Provides creaminess without being too heavy, balancing richness perfectly.
• Chopped fresh thyme: This herb brings a subtle earthiness that brightens each bite.
• Garlic powder: For just a hint of savory punch without overpowering the other flavors.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the potatoes well.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds warmth and a touch of bite.
• Smoked paprika: This is the secret weapon—it gives the stacks a pleasant smoky tone that pairs perfectly with the ham.
• Russet potatoes: About 5 small potatoes, sliced thinly with their skins on for texture and nutrition.
• Sliced deli ham: Cut into 2-inch squares, this provides the salty, meaty goodness that makes the stacks irresistible.
• Shredded cheddar (orange or yellow): Melts beautifully on top, adding a sharp, cheesy finish.
• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle on top for color and a fresh, herbaceous touch.

Variations

I love how this Cheesy Scalloped Potato & Ham Stacks Recipe can be tweaked based on what you have in your fridge or your dietary needs. Changing up the cheese or swapping out the ham opens up so many possibilities—feel free to get creative!

• Swap your cheese: I sometimes use Gruyère instead of cheddar for a nuttier flavor, and it’s always a winner.
• Make it vegetarian: Skip the ham and add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a savory twist.
• Spice it up: Adding a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños to the seasoning blend gives a nice kick.
• Herb variations: If you don’t have thyme, rosemary or sage work beautifully with potatoes and ham.

How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Potato & Ham Stacks Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by arranging a rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 350°F. Then, spray a standard 12-cup muffin tin generously with cooking spray—this helps the stacks slide out easily when they’re done. Trust me, this little step is a game-changer to keep your stacks intact.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy, Cheesy Coating

In a large bowl, whisk together the finely shredded Parmesan, half-and-half, chopped fresh thyme, garlic powder, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika. This blend infuses the potatoes with amazing flavor and keeps everything silky and moist while baking. Toss your thinly sliced potatoes in this mixture until each slice is well coated.

Step 3: Build Your Potato & Ham Stacks

Now here’s the fun part. In each well of your prepared muffin tin, place two potato slices first, then top with a square of ham. Repeat this layering process four times, alternating potatoes and ham, and finish each stack with one last potato slice on top. Pour any remaining Parmesan mixture over and around the stacks—this moisture is essential for the creamy texture.

Step 4: Bake Covered, Then Add Cheddar

Cover the pan tightly with foil to trap steam and bake the stacks for 35 minutes. This ensures the potatoes become tender without drying out. Remove the foil, then sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over and around the stacks. Pop the uncovered pan back into the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before you move them.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Use an offset spatula to gently lift the stacks out of the muffin tins and transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle the tops with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. That’s it—the perfect cheesy, savory stacks ready to wow anyone at your table.

How to Serve Cheesy Scalloped Potato & Ham Stacks Recipe

Garnishes

I always top my stacks with freshly chopped parsley—it adds a lively green color and fresh note that balances the richness. Sometimes, I like a light drizzle of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives for a bit of tang and extra herb flavor. It’s those little touches that make the presentation feel thoughtful without any extra work.

Side Dishes

Since these stacks are pretty hearty, I usually pair them with something light and fresh like a crisp green salad or steamed green beans tossed with a bit of lemon juice. For brunch, fresh fruit or a simple cucumber tomato salad really complements the savory richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I sometimes serve these stacks on a long wooden board with small ramekins of mustard, chutney, or hot sauce on the side—guests love the interactive element. I’ve also layered them neatly on a decorative platter sprinkled with fresh herbs and edible flowers to wow at brunch gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover stacks in an airtight container in the fridge and they keep really well for up to 3 days. It’s best to let them cool completely before refrigerating to avoid sogginess. When I reheat, I find they taste just as great the next day.

Freezing

I have frozen these stacks successfully by placing them individually on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag. When reheating, I thaw them overnight in the fridge first to maintain texture and then bake until warmed through. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop the stacks in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes to restore that crispy cheese on top and warm the potatoes and ham evenly. Microwaving works in a pinch, but you might lose that lovely texture, so I highly recommend reheating in the oven if you can.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Scalloped Potato & Ham Stacks Recipe is one of those dishes I come back to when I want something warm, satisfying, and a little impressive without sweating it out in the kitchen. Every time I make it, I’m reminded how such simple ingredients can create something so delicious and comforting. I can’t wait for you to try making these stacks—you’ll enjoy every cheesy, tender bite as much as my family does!

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