[warmth & comfort]

Fall sings of warmth and comfort.
It brings us back home,
enjoying the familiarity and security of family.
It beckons us to gather 'round the table,
sharing stories and remembering where we come from.
It's 'round this table we are filled and equipped to back out and pour ourselves out.

Among our favorite fall dishes is scalloped potatoes & ham---not strictly a fall dish, but most definitely comfort food.
There are some recipes that keep me tweaking and searching, knowing that I can do better.
This recipe is one I've returned to over and over for the better part of 15 years;
the one that, upon first bite, ended my search.

Scalloped Potatoes & Ham

1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
5-6 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced thin
1 medium onion, halved, thinly sliced, and separated
1 1/2 cups cubed cooked ham
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Melt butter in a heavy saucepan over low heat; add flour, stirring until smooth.  Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly.  Gradually add milk; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbly.  Stir in salt and white pepper.  

Spoon 1/4 cup white sauce into a greased 9x13 baking dish.  Top with half each of potatoes, onions, ham, remaining sauce, and cheese.  Repeat layers (but reserve remaining cheese). Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 55 to 60 minutes or until tender.  Sprinkle with reserved cheese and bake uncovered an additional 5 minutes.