Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes With Ham

I found this recipe years ago and am now copying it here from our family cookbook binder. Enjoy!

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Ham

2

tablespoons butter or margarine 

1

clove garlic, finely chopped

2

lb round white potatoes (about 4 medium), peeled and thinly sliced

1/2

lb fully cooked ham, cut into 1/2-inch pieces (about 2 cups) 

1

cup shredded American-Cheddar cheese blend (4 oz)

3

tablespoons Gold Medal™ all-purpose flour

1/4

teaspoon pepper

1

pint (2 cups) half-and-half

In 4 quart Dutch oven, or large pan, melt butter over medium heat.   Cook garlic in butter 1 minute, stirring occasionally, until softened.  Remove from heat.  Stir in potatoes, ham, half of the cheese, all of the flour, pepper, salt and bacon.  Pour half and half over potato mixture.  Heat to boiling over medium-high heat; reduce heat to low.  Cover and simmer about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender.  If your potatoes are not cut thin enough, it could take longer to cook, or you can microwave your potatoes before you add them, to cook them part way first.  Top with remaining cheese, if desired.