This scalloped potato casserole includes diced ham and a basic white sauce with some onion, celery, and optional bell pepper. Half-and-half makes a rich sauce for the potatoes, while some fresh chopped parsley and optional bell pepper add some extra color. Potatoes can be stubborn and sometimes take longer to become tender, especially when layered in a casserole. If you want to ensure the potatoes are done in the allotted time, consider blanching them in boiling water for a minute before you add them to the sauce mixture. See the tips below the recipe for details. The cheese topping is optional, but it does add some nice flavor. Alternatively, uncover the potatoes sprinkle them with buttered toasted breadcrumbs 10 to 15 minutes before you remove the casserole from the oven.