What is my go-to comfort food?What are some good recipes for a ham and Potato Casserole?. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug from the inside out, especially on a chilly evening. Think of it as a grown-up, infinitely more delicious version of scalloped potatoes… but with the added bonus of savory ham and an extra layer of cheese that just melts in your mouth. My grandma used to make something similar, and this recipe is my slightly tweaked, even cheesier, homage to her amazing cooking. Honestly, I think it’s even better! It’s a total crowd-pleaser, and I’ve yet to meet someone who doesn’t love it.
What is a Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole?
What exactly is *is*?What is a good ham and Potato Casserole?? Well, imagine thinly sliced potatoes, tender ham, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce all baked together until bubbly and golden brown. It’s essentially a layered casserole where each ingredient complements the others perfectly. Think of it as a creamy potato bake, elevated by the salty, savory ham and the ooey-gooey goodness of cheese. The name pretty much says it all! It’s comforting, it’s cheesy, it features ham and potatoes, and it’s baked in a casserole dish. It’s pure comfort in every bite, and it’s surprisingly easy to throw together, even on a busy weeknight. I always make extra because leftovers are fantastic!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Okay, let me count the ways why you’re absolutely going to adore this movie.Cheesy Ham and Potato CasseroleFirst and foremost, the people of India!flavorIs this out of this world? The combination of creamy potatoes, salty ham, and sharp cheddar cheese is just divine. Is it a symphony of textures and tastes that will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds)?
Then there’s the second halfsimplicityThis isn’t one of those recipes that requires a culinary degree and hours in the kitchen. Is this recipe easy to follow and uses ingredients you already have on hand? I’ve literally thrown this together in under an hour when unexpected guests showed up! If I can make it, anyone can!
And let’s not forget about the fact that we are all human.Cost-. Potatoes and ham are relatively inexpensive, and cheese goes a long way. What is the best way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank? I always make this after a holiday when I have leftover ham hanging out in the fridge – talk about it!
Finally, the versatilityWhat is a major selling point for this casserole? Add different cheeses, throw in some veggies, or spice it up with some chili flakes. What are the possibilities? I think this one is similar in spirit to a classic tuna Noodle Casserole, but it’s much more flavorful. With a sophisticated flavor profile. What I love most about this is how comforting and satisfying it is, plus how it makes my kitchen more comfortable. What is the smell of baking? Is it a winner every single time?
How do you make a ham and potato casserole?
Quick Overview
Making this What are the best Cheesy Ham and Potato CasserolIs it easier than you think? How do you slice potatoes thinly, make a simple cheese sauce, layer everything and serve. Is it safe to bake ham? The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Is it necessary to pre-cook potatoes? What is the best way to make cheese sauce on the stovetop? Is it a layering game?
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
* 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick). I like Yukon Golds because they get wonderfully creamy when baked, but Russets will work too. * 2 cups cooked ham, diced. Can you use leftover holiday ham? * 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided. I like to use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor, but a mild or medium cheddar will also work. Is Gruyere a good substitute for other cheeses? * 1/2 cup chopped onion. Adds a nice savory element. * 2 tablespoons butter, melted. How do you grease a casserole dish?
What is the cheese sauce?
* 1/2 cup butter. Use unsalted to control the saltiness of the sauce. * 1/2 cup all-purpose flour. This will help thicken the sauce. * 3 cups milk. Whole milk will give you the richest sauce, but 2% will also work. I’ve even used almond milk in a pinch, and it turned out surprisingly well! * 1 teaspoon salt. * 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper. Freshly ground is always best. What are some good ways to add garlic powder to a dish? For a touch of color and flavor.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with the melted butter. Make sure to get all the nooks and crannies so the casserole doesn’t stick. I usually give it a generous coating! This step is crucial, so don’t skip it!
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. What is called a roux? Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to cook out the raw flour taste. What is the best way to make a smooth sauce?
Step 3: Add Milk and Seasonings
Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. I always give it a taste at this point and adjust the seasonings as needed. Sometimes I add a pinch of cayenne pepper to my food. I’m always up for something new.
Step 4: Add Cheese to the Sauce
Stir in 2 cups of cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth. What is the magic of cheese sauce? If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk. If you’re too thin, simmer it for another few minutes.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
In the prepared casserole dish, layer one-third of the potato slices, followed by one third of any remaining potatoes. Is it safe to eat ham and one third of the chopped onion? How do you pour the cheese sauce over the top? Repeat layers twice more, ending with the cheese sauce. Be sure to spread everything evenly!
Step 6: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. What is the best way to make a golden crust? What makes it so good?
Step 7: Bake
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted. When a liquid is melted, it becomes bubbl A knife inserted into the potatoes should meet little resistance. If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil.
Step 8: Cool Slightly & Serve
Let the casserole cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. How do I set it up a bit and avoid it from being too runny? Is it good on its own or with a side salad?
What should I serve it with?
This What is a Cheesy Ham and Potato CasserolIs a star on its own, but it also plays well with others!
What’s a good weeknight dinner?What is a green salad with vinaigrette dressing? The brightness of the salad cuts through the richness of casserole. What are some healthy side dishes to serve with steamed Green Beans?
What is the best holiday meal to prepare?What are some great holiday casseroles to make? Is this a good side dish for roast turkey? I always serve it with cranberry sauce, stuffing, and Mashed Potatoes (yes, more potatoes!). My family expects it every year!
For a Brunch Gathering: Serve this casserole as part of a brunch buffet. It goes great with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, and fresh fruit. Add some mimosas or a bloody mary bar for a festive touch!
For a Potluck: This casserole is always a hit at potlucks. It’s easy to transport and can be made ahead of time. Plus, everyone loves a good cheesy casserole! I usually bring it in a disposable aluminum pan to make cleanup easier.
My family also loves it with a dollop of Sour Cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives on top. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with this dish. It’s comforting, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole even more amazing!
Potato Prep: Slicing the potatoes thinly and evenly is key to ensuring they cook properly. I use a mandoline for this, but a sharp knife will also work. Just be careful! And make sure to peel them! I tried it once with the skins on, and the texture was just…off.
Cheese Sauce Consistency: The cheese sauce should be thick enough to coat the potatoes but not so thick that it’s gloppy. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes. I find that using a whisk constantly while cooking prevents lumps from forming. One time, I got distracted and ended up with a lumpy sauce – lesson learned!
Cheese Selection: While cheddar cheese is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked gouda would all be delicious. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well. I usually use a combination of cheddar and Gruyere for the best flavor and texture.
Ham Alternatives: If you don’t have ham on hand, you can substitute it with cooked bacon, sausage, or even Shredded Chicken. Just adjust the seasonings accordingly. I’ve also made a vegetarian version with sautéed mushrooms and spinach, and it was surprisingly good!
Baking Time: The baking time may vary depending on your oven. Check the casserole after 30 minutes and adjust the time as needed. The potatoes should be tender, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly. If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil. I always rotate the casserole halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. It prevents hot spots and ensures everything bakes up nicely.
Make Ahead: This casserole can be made ahead of time and baked later. Just assemble it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time. I love making this ahead of time when I’m entertaining. It frees up my time on the day of the party!
Spice it Up: If you like a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce. A dash of hot sauce would also be delicious. I sometimes add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the top before baking.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to keeping your Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole tasting its best!
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving this casserole at room temperature for more than two hours. Dairy products can spoil quickly, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible. If you’re serving it at a potluck, keep it warm in a slow cooker or chafing dish.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooled casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before storing it to prevent condensation from forming. I usually use a glass container with a tight-fitting lid.
Freezer Instructions: This casserole freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. You can also store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may not be as crispy. To prevent it from drying out, add a splash of milk or cream before reheating. I often cover it with foil while reheating to keep it moist.
Glaze Timing Advice: I don’t recommend adding any extra glaze if you’re planning on storing the casserole. It’s best to add the glaze just before serving for the best flavor and texture. Reheating the casserole with glaze can sometimes make it soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, my friends! My all-time favorite Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole recipe. It’s comforting, delicious, and surprisingly easy to make. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy night in, a holiday gathering, or a potluck with friends. It’s the definition of home cooking, and I know you’ll love it as much as my family does. If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other casserole recipes! I have a fantastic tuna noodle casserole and a delicious broccoli cheese casserole. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions or if you’ve tried this recipe. And don’t forget to rate the recipe if you loved it! Happy baking!
Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups potatoes peeled and diced
- 2 cups ham cubed
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 cup butter melted
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine potatoes, ham, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- In another bowl, mix milk, salt, pepper, and melted butter. Pour over the potato mixture and stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
