Introduction
There are some recipes that feel almost too good to be true—and this Easy Ham + Cheese Scalloped Potato Roll (4 Ingredients) is absolutely one of them. Four ingredients. One pan. A golden, cheesy, cozy dish that looks impressive enough for guests but is secretly effortless to make.
The first time I made this, it was on a busy evening when the fridge looked almost empty. I had leftover ham, a bag of sliced potatoes, cheese, and cream. That’s it. No fancy spices, no complicated prep. I layered everything together, rolled it up, crossed my fingers, and popped it in the oven. What came out was bubbling, cheesy perfection with crisp edges and a soft, creamy center.
This recipe quickly became a favorite—and it’s easy to see why. The Easy Ham + Cheese Scalloped Potato Roll (4 Ingredients) is:
- Comfort food at its finest
- Surprisingly elegant for how simple it is
- Naturally gluten free
- Perfect for weeknights, holidays, or potlucks
If you love scalloped potatoes and ham, this rolled version takes everything you adore and makes it even more fun, sliceable, and shareable.
Let’s get into it 🧀🥔
Ingredients
This recipe stays true to its name: just four main ingredients. That’s part of its charm.
Main Ingredients
- Thinly sliced potatoes (Yukon gold or russet)
- Cooked ham, thinly sliced or chopped
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- Heavy cream
That’s it. No flour, no butter, no seasoning required (though you can absolutely add extras if you want).
Ingredient Substitutions & Dietary Options
Even with only four ingredients, this recipe is very flexible.
Gluten-Free
- This recipe is naturally gluten free
- Just double-check that your ham is gluten free
Dairy-Free Option
- Use dairy-free cheese
- Swap heavy cream for unsweetened dairy-free cream (like oat or cashew cream)
Healthier Swaps
- Use reduced-fat cheese
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk
- Add thinly sliced zucchini mixed with potatoes
Vegetarian Option
- Skip the ham and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or caramelized onions
Different Protein Options
- Turkey ham
- Rotisserie chicken
- Cooked bacon or prosciutto
This adaptability is one reason the Easy Ham + Cheese Scalloped Potato Roll (4 Ingredients) has become such a popular recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Don’t let the rolled shape intimidate you—this recipe is very forgiving and beginner-friendly.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking dish or rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Tip: Parchment paper is key—it helps with rolling and keeps everything from sticking.
Step 2: Layer the Potatoes
Arrange the sliced potatoes on the parchment paper in slightly overlapping rows, forming a large rectangle.
Try to keep the thickness even so everything cooks evenly.
Step 3: Add Cream
Drizzle the heavy cream evenly over the potatoes. Don’t worry if it pools slightly—this is what creates that classic scalloped potato texture.
Step 4: Add Ham and Cheese
Sprinkle the ham evenly over the potatoes.
Top generously with shredded cheese.
Make sure the cheese reaches the edges—this helps everything bind together as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake Until Tender
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
Step 6: Roll It Up
Once baked, let the dish cool for 10 minutes. This step is important—it helps the roll hold its shape.
Using the parchment paper, carefully roll the potatoes into a tight log, starting from the short end.
Don’t stress if it’s not perfect. Rustic is part of the charm.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Slice into thick rounds and serve warm. Each slice reveals beautiful layers of potatoes, ham, and melted cheese.
Extra Tips
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Ham + Cheese Scalloped Potato Roll (4 Ingredients) works beautifully as:
- A main dish with a simple green salad
- A hearty side for roasted chicken or steak
- A brunch dish with eggs
- A holiday side for Easter, Christmas, or Thanksgiving
Add a little chopped parsley or chives on top for color if you want to dress it up.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze slices for up to 2 months
Reheating Tips:
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F for best texture
- Air fryer: Great for crisp edges
- Microwave: Works well for quick meals
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, try these fun twists:
- Ham & Swiss Roll: Swap cheddar for Swiss cheese
- Loaded Potato Style: Add bacon and green onions
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper or pepper jack cheese
- Garlic Lovers: Add garlic powder or roasted garlic
- Breakfast Roll: Use breakfast ham and serve with eggs
The base of the Easy Ham + Cheese Scalloped Potato Roll (4 Ingredients) is a perfect canvas for creativity.
Nutritional Information
Based on data from Hungry Happens:
https://hungryhappens.net/easy-ham-cheese-scalloped-potato-roll-gluten-free/
Approximate per serving:
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: ~15g
- Fat: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~26g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugar: ~2g
- Sodium: ~540mg
This dish is filling, comforting, and surprisingly balanced when paired with vegetables.
FAQ Section
How long does it take to make Easy Ham + Cheese Scalloped Potato Roll (4 Ingredients)?
About 60 minutes total, including prep, baking, and cooling time.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes. Half-and-half or evaporated milk work well, though the texture will be slightly lighter.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes. Freeze individual slices for easy reheating. Thaw overnight in the fridge before warming.
Do the potatoes need to be precooked?
No. Thin slicing and baking with cream ensures they cook through perfectly
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The cheesy, familiar flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s cozy, impressive, and unbelievably simple, this Easy Ham + Cheese Scalloped Potato Roll (4 Ingredients) is it. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you get a dish that feels special enough for guests and easy enough for a weeknight.
It’s warm, cheesy, satisfying, and endlessly customizable—everything comfort food should be.
Give it a try, share it with someone who loves potatoes as much as you do, and don’t forget to leave a comment letting me know how it turned out. Happy cooking 🥔🧀💛