This Ham and Potato Casserole is the epitome of comfort food – a creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or potluck. Tender slices of potato are layered with savory ham, a hint of onion, and smothered in a rich, homemade cheese sauce. The optional breadcrumb topping adds a delightful textural contrast.
Why you will love this recipe: You’ll fall in love with this recipe because it’s:
- Incredibly comforting: The combination of potatoes, ham, and cheese sauce is a classic for a reason. It’s warm, satisfying, and guaranteed to leave you feeling content.
- Easy to make: While it looks and tastes impressive, this casserole is surprisingly simple to put together. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredient list is manageable.
- Versatile and adaptable: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Add different vegetables, cheeses, or seasonings to create your own unique version.
- Perfect for using leftovers: This casserole is a great way to use up leftover cooked ham, potatoes, or cheese. It’s an excellent way to minimize food waste and create a delicious new meal.
- A crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re serving a large family or hosting a gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to be a hit. It’s easy to transport and can be made ahead of time.
Introduction
Ham and Potato Casserole – the name alone conjures images of cozy evenings, heartwarming meals, and the comforting aroma of bubbling cheese. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a memory waiting to happen. It’s the kind of dish that evokes feelings of home, family, and simple pleasures.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most satisfying meals are the ones that are easiest to prepare. With just a handful of readily available ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. It’s also a very easy recipe that you can put together at the last minute!
This recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s an invitation to get creative in the kitchen. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, and spices to create a casserole that truly reflects your personal tastes. Perhaps add some broccoli florets for a touch of green, or swap out cheddar for smoked gouda for a deeper, smokier flavor.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Ham and Potato Casserole is a recipe you can master with ease. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best)
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended for a richer sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping (panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts beautifully. While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This prevents the casserole from sticking to the bottom and makes it easier to serve. You can use butter, cooking spray, or a thin layer of oil to grease the dish.
Step 2: Prepare the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly. This creates a roux, which is the foundation for a smooth and creamy sauce. Make sure to whisk continuously to prevent the flour from clumping and burning.
Step 3: Gradually whisk in the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and bubbles (about 3-5 minutes). Adding the milk gradually helps prevent lumps from forming. The garlic and onion powder add depth of flavor to the sauce, while the salt and pepper enhance the overall taste. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheese until melted and smooth. This creates the creamy, cheesy base for the casserole. Make sure to stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety. The remaining ½ cup of cheese will be used for topping.
Step 5: Assemble the casserole. In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, half of the diced ham, and half of the chopped onion. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the layer. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, ham, onion, and cheese sauce. Layering the ingredients ensures that each component is evenly distributed throughout the casserole. This also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully during baking.
Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese over the top. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the casserole. The cheese on top will melt and create a golden, bubbly crust. The breadcrumbs will add a delightful crunch and textural contrast.
Step 7: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. This prevents the top of the casserole from browning too quickly and allows the potatoes to cook through.
Step 8: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly. Test the potatoes for doneness by inserting a fork into the center of the casserole. If the fork slides in easily, the potatoes are cooked through.
Step 9: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese sauce to set slightly and makes it easier to slice and serve.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: Intermediate. While the steps are straightforward, layering the ingredients and making the cheese sauce requires some attention to detail.
- Flavor Profile: Comforting, savory, and cheesy. The ham and potatoes provide a hearty base, while the cheese sauce adds richness and flavor.
- Overall Satisfaction: High. This casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Ham and Potato Casserole as a main dish for dinner.
- Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- It’s also great as a potluck dish or for bringing to a holiday gathering.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave and enjoyed the next day.
Tips:
- To prevent the potatoes from browning, soak them in cold water for 30 minutes before slicing.
- If you don’t have cooked ham on hand, you can use leftover roasted chicken or turkey instead.
- For a richer flavor, use Gruyere or Swiss cheese in place of cheddar.
- If you prefer a thinner cheese sauce, add a bit more milk.
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an additional 15 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
Prep Time:
- 20 minutes
Cook Time:
- 55-60 minutes
Total Time:
- 1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 20 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Serving Size: 1/6th of casserole (approximate)
- Calories: ~340 kcal (estimate, will vary based on ingredients used)
- Protein: 16g
- Sodium: 580mg (estimate, will vary based on ingredients used)
Conclusion
This Ham and Potato Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s about gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing a delicious meal, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a hearty and easy to make recipe that you can make whenever and however you want!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ham and Potato Casserole:
Q1: Can I use different types of potatoes for this casserole?
A: Absolutely! While Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are commonly recommended for their texture and ability to absorb the cheese sauce, you can certainly experiment with other varieties. Red potatoes will hold their shape well during baking, while sweet potatoes will add a touch of sweetness to the dish. Just keep in mind that different types of potatoes may require slightly different cooking times, so adjust accordingly.
Q2: Can I add vegetables to this casserole to make it more nutritious?
A: Definitely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value of this casserole. Cooked broccoli florets, peas, carrots, or bell peppers would all be excellent additions. Simply toss them in with the ham and onion when layering the ingredients. You could also add a layer of spinach or kale for an extra dose of vitamins and minerals.
Q3: I don’t have all-purpose flour. Can I use a substitute in the cheese sauce?
A: Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with other thickening agents. Cornstarch is a good alternative; use half the amount of cornstarch as you would flour (so 1.5 tablespoons of cornstarch in this recipe). Arrowroot powder is another option, and it’s gluten-free. Be sure to whisk the cornstarch or arrowroot powder with a small amount of cold milk before adding it to the saucepan to prevent clumping.
Q4: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights. When you’re ready to bake it, simply remove it from the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then bake according
