Shortcut Scalloped Potatoes for One
User Reviews
5
Shortcut Scalloped Potatoes for One
Description
Shortcut Scalloped Potatoes for One is a scaled-down version of the traditional scalloped potato casserole, tailored for a single serving. It begins with thinly sliced red potatoes parboiled until just tender, then layered in a small baking dish with sharp cheddar cheese, diced cooked ham, and bits of butter. The layering is seasoned lightly with salt and pepper, and the dish is finished by pouring milk or a richer dairy option over the layers. Baking in the oven melts the cheese and allows the ingredients to meld, resulting in a creamy texture with pockets of melted cheese and bits of savory ham. The red potatoes contribute a soft yet firm texture when cooked properly, creating a satisfying bite.
The method focuses on short boiling of the potatoes to achieve a tender but not mushy texture, then a brief baking at 350°F until the cheese melts and the top is bubbly. Portion-controlled, this recipe avoids leftovers and suits solo diners. The balance of melted sharp cheddar and ham adds savory notes complementing the natural earthiness of the potatoes.
This dish can be enjoyed as a comfort food side or a modest main, especially when time or ingredient quantity is limited. It does not require peeling the red potato but allows flexibility to substitute other types if peeled. Cooling for a few minutes after baking helps set the layers slightly and makes handling easier.
Ingredients
- Oven-safe 12-ounce (1 1/2 cup) dish
Scalloped Potatoes
- 1 red potato sliced 1/8-inch, medium
- 1/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese 1oz
- 1/4 cup cooked ham 1.5oz
- 1/2 tablespoon butter diced, 7 grams
- 2 tablespoons milk half-and-half, or heavy cream
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350° F.
- In a medium saucepan, cover potatoes with cold water and salt the water generously. Bring to a low boil and continue to boil for 3 to 5 minutes, until potatoes are just fork tender. (They won't get much more cooking after this, so pull them when the texture seems good to you. And if you accidentally overcook your potatoes, don't worry too much. They will be a little smushy, but will still taste delicious.)
- Drain potatoes and layer potato slices, cheese, ham, and butter pieces in your baking dish, sprinkling a bit of salt and pepper over each set of layers, and finish with a final layer of cheese and ham. Pour milk or cream over the top.
- Place dish on a cookie sheet in the oven to catch drips and bake for 10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow to cool for 5 minutes and enjoy!!
Notes
- Red potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their size and texture, which allows for even thin slicing without peeling.
- You can substitute half-and-half or heavy cream for the milk to increase richness.
- Boil the potatoes just until fork tender to keep slices intact during baking.
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving to let the layers set.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 1Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 354 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 354kcal | 18% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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