I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – potato ham cheese casserole. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a special event, or a holiday gathering, this casserole is always a hit.
The combination of tender potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheese is absolute perfection. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort from me as the cook.
I mean, who doesn’t love a recipe that can be prepared ahead of time and baked to perfection while I’m busy taking care of other things? Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious as the first serving, making it an ideal option for meal prep or potluck events. My kids love helping me assemble the casserole, and they always ask for seconds (and sometimes thirds!)
when it’s served. The health benefits of this recipe are also a bonus – with the complex carbohydrates from the potatoes, protein from the ham, and calcium from the cheese, this casserole is not only delicious but also nutritious. I’ve made this recipe countless times over the years, and I’m still discovering new ways to customize it to suit my family’s tastes.
It’s truly a classic comfort food dish that never fails to impress.
Potato Ham Cheese Casserole
4.6 from 1714 votes
This hearty casserole layers tender potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheese in a creamy sauce. It is a comforting one-dish meal perfect for using leftover ham.
4 cups peeled and thinly sliced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
2 cups diced cooked ham
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons butter
For the Sauce
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
👨🍳Directions
1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
3This ensures the casserole does not stick and bakes evenly.
4In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
5Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
6Add the diced ham and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ham is lightly browned.
7In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter.
8Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
9Gradually whisk in the milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
10Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
11Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
12Top with half of the ham and onion mixture, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
13Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, and cheeses.
14Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the casserole, ensuring it covers all the layers.
15Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
16Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is golden and bubbly.
17Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
18This allows the layers to set and makes slicing easier.
For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add a layer of steamed broccoli or peas for extra vegetables. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This potato ham cheese casserole is truly a timeless classic that never fails to impress my family and friends.
Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special holiday gathering.
With its easy preparation method and delicious flavors, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household just like it has been in mine.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Potato Ham Cheese Casserole
Q1: What type of potatoes should I use for this recipe?
A1: For this casserole, I recommend using high-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho. They will yield a lighter texture and help prevent the potatoes from becoming too soggy during baking.
Q2: Can I substitute the ham with another protein source?
A2: Yes, you can use other protein sources like cooked chicken or bacon in place of the ham. Simply adjust the cooking time according to your protein choice.
Q3: How do I ensure my casserole doesn’t become too brown?
A3: To prevent over-browning, cover the top of the casserole with foil during baking. If you prefer a golden crust on top, remove the foil for the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
Q4: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A4: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until baking day.
Q5: How do I reheat leftover casserole?
A5: To reheat leftover casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake until warmed through.
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