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Ham & Potato Casserole Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

Keywords: ham casserole, potato casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, cheesy casserole, one-pan meal, family-friendly dinner