Easy Ham & Potato Casserole Recipe to Try Tonight
If you’re searching for an easy and delicious dinner idea, this Ham & Potato Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s a comforting dish packed with tender potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that comes together quickly for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something hearty and satisfying, this recipe delivers warmth and flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple: Minimal prep time means you can have dinner on the table fast without sacrificing flavor.
- Comfort Food Classic: The combination of creamy potatoes and savory ham creates a nostalgic, cozy meal everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to whatever leftovers or ingredients you have on hand.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy, satisfying casserole.
- One-Pan Meal: Saves time on cleanup, making weeknight dinners stress-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Ham & Potato Casserole Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each item plays an important role in balancing creaminess, heartiness, and a touch of savory goodness.
- Potatoes: Choose Yukon Gold or Russets for a tender, creamy base that holds up well in baking.
- Diced Ham: Use cooked ham to add smoky, meaty richness that complements the potatoes perfectly.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar is ideal for melting smoothly and providing a flavorful kick.
- Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the casserole.
- Milk or Cream: Creates the luscious, creamy sauce that brings all ingredients together.
- Butter and Flour: Used to make a simple roux for thickening the sauce.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a hint of paprika enhance and balance flavors.
Variations for Ham & Potato Casserole Recipe
One of the best things about this Ham & Potato Casserole Recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to introduce different flavors, cater to dietary preferences, or add your favorite ingredients, there’s plenty of room to switch things up.
- Switch the Cheese: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for a different cheesy twist.
- Add Veggies: Stir in broccoli, peas, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
- Use Sweet Potatoes: For a sweeter, earthier flavor and a vibrant look on your plate.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour for the sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a little heat.
How to Make Ham & Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and cubing the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Boil them in salted water until just tender, about 10 minutes, then drain and set aside. This ensures they cook evenly and stay creamy in the casserole.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat then whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to taste.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked potatoes, diced ham, sautéed onions, and shredded cheese. Pour in the warm sauce and gently stir until everything is coated evenly.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with extra cheese if desired. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Step 5: Let It Rest Before Serving
Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps it to set and makes serving easier without losing that gooey, cheesy texture.
Pro Tips for Making Ham & Potato Casserole Recipe
- Use Day-Old Ham: Leftover ham works wonderfully and intensifies the savory flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Potatoes: Slightly undercooked potatoes hold their shape better and won’t turn mushy.
- Low and Slow Baking: Baking at a moderate temperature prevents the cheese from burning before the inside is hot and bubbly.
- Add Crunch: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top for a crispy finishing touch.
- Season Slowly: Taste the sauce as you go, adjusting seasoning gradually for the best balance.
How to Serve Ham & Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley or green onions add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich casserole, while a light sprinkle of paprika enhances its inviting color.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to balance the meal with fresh, crunchy veggies and lighter flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in ramekins for a charming presentation, or top with slices of avocado or a dollop of sour cream for an extra creamy, decadent touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness without losing flavor.
Freezing
This dish freezes well; just cool completely, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual servings until heated through, stirring halfway to ensure even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use leftover ham for this casserole?
Absolutely! Leftover ham is perfect for the Ham & Potato Casserole Recipe and actually enhances the flavor with its smoky, tender texture.
What’s the best type of potato to use?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are recommended because they offer a creamy texture while holding their shape nicely during baking.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute milk with almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives to make it suitable for dairy-free diets.
How long will the casserole last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy within 3 days for optimal taste and food safety.
Is it possible to add vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! Vegetables like broccoli, peas, or bell peppers add color, nutrition, and delicious variety to the casserole.
Final Thoughts
This Ham & Potato Casserole Recipe is a keeper for any busy weeknight or cozy weekend dinner. It’s simple, deeply satisfying, and flexible enough to make your own. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s such a beloved comfort food classic. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in cheesy, hearty goodness that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
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Ham & Potato Casserole Recipe
This Ham & Potato Casserole is a quick, comforting, and hearty dish featuring tender potatoes, smoky ham, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it combines nostalgic flavors with ease of preparation and versatility, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with flour substitution)
Ingredients
Potatoes and Ham
- 4 cups peeled and cubed Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
- 2 cups diced cooked ham (day-old leftovers recommended)
Vegetables
- 1 cup chopped onion, sautéed
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping if desired)
Creamy Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour/cornstarch for gluten-free)
- 2 ½ cups milk or cream (or almond/oat milk for dairy-free)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Boil them in salted water for about 10 minutes or until just tender. Drain thoroughly and set aside to avoid overcooking and mushiness.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes without browning. Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly, continuing until the sauce thickens smoothly. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, adjusting to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked potatoes, diced ham, sautéed onions, and shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the warm sauce over the mixture and gently stir until everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Bake the Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish. Optionally, sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps it set and makes slicing and serving easier while retaining its gooey, cheesy texture.
Notes
- Use day-old ham or leftovers for enhanced savory flavor.
- Do not overcook potatoes to maintain shape and texture.
- Bake at a moderate temperature to avoid burning the cheese top prematurely.
- Add a crunchy topping like breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for texture contrast.
- Taste and adjust seasonings gradually when preparing the sauce for best flavor balance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: ham casserole, potato casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, cheesy casserole, one-pan meal, family-friendly dinner
