How does one find the temperature you should use when baking multiple items such as scalloped potatoes and ham?

You can't bake scalloped potatoes and ham at the same temperature! They require different temperatures and cooking times. Here's a breakdown:

Scalloped Potatoes:

* Temperature: 375°F (190°C)

* Time: 30-45 minutes (depending on thickness of potato slices)

Ham:

* Temperature: Depends on the type of ham:

* Uncooked ham: 325°F (160°C) for 15-20 minutes per pound

* Pre-cooked ham: 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes (to heat through)

Here's how to bake both items together:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the ideal temperature for scalloped potatoes.

2. Bake the scalloped potatoes first: Place your potato dish in the oven.

3. After about 15 minutes, add the ham: If you're using pre-cooked ham, simply place it on a baking sheet and add it to the oven. If you're using uncooked ham, bake it separately according to its specific instructions.

4. Adjust baking time: The scalloped potatoes will likely be done before the ham, so check on them and remove them when they're golden brown and tender. If you're using pre-cooked ham, you'll only need to heat it through, so check on it after the scalloped potatoes are done.

5. Monitor both items: Watch the ham closely to ensure it doesn't dry out. If needed, you can cover it with foil to prevent this.

Important Tips:

* Use a meat thermometer: This is crucial to ensure the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

* Read the ham packaging: Always follow the cooking instructions on the packaging, as it may provide different temperatures and timings.

* Consider different baking pans: If you're using a large oven, you can bake the ham and potatoes on separate racks for even cooking.

By following these steps, you can successfully bake both scalloped potatoes and ham in the same oven, even though they require different temperatures and cooking times.