Ham and Scalloped Potato Bake

Step 1:Peel potatoes and place into boiling water; cook until the potatoes are 3/4 of the way softened. The center core of the potatoes should be firm while the outside is softened. Use a spatula to spread half of the can of cream of mushroom or chicken soup on the bottom of a large casserole dish. Evenly spread the minced garlic on top of the soup; lightly salt and pepper.

Step 2:Cut the potatoes into 1/2 inch thick slices and layer them directly on top of the layer of cream of mushroom or chicken soup. The potatoes should overlap each other no more than three times. The excess potatoes should be discarded to ensure proper penetration of the cheese, soup and ham flavors into the potato layer. Evenly distribute the cubed ham on top of the potatoes and cover with remaining soup.

Step 3:In a separate bowl, combine cheeses and gently mix with washed bare hands. Evenly cover the top of the contents of the casserole dish with the cheese mixture.

Step 4:Top the entire dish with the crushed potato chips and a moderate amount of salt and pepper.

Step 5:Place into preheated oven and cook for 45 minutes; the cheese should be entirely melted and the potato chips should be lightly browned.