This creamy ham and potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It’s a rich and satisfying dish that combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and a luscious creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. With layers of flavor in every bite, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 6 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Ham
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- While the potatoes are cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced onions and cook until translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet used for the onions, add the flour and whisk until combined with the melted butter, forming a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add the milk, heavy cream, and sour cream, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is thick and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked potatoes evenly on the bottom.
- Sprinkle half of the diced ham over the potatoes, followed by half of the caramelized onions.
- Pour half of the creamy sauce over the ham and potatoes, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, onions, sauce, and cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is golden brown on top.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired, and enjoy your creamy ham and potato casserole.
Cooking Notes
- Potatoes: Yukon gold or russet potatoes work best for this recipe. They hold up well during baking and absorb the flavors nicely.
- Ham: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover ham. You can also use store-bought diced ham for convenience.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyère or mozzarella can be excellent substitutes for cheddar.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried ones. Double the amount if using fresh herbs.
- Cream: If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less thick and rich.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature first and then bake as directed.
Q2: Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Q3: How can I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables to the casserole? Absolutely! Sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach can be added to the potato mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
Keto and Low Carb Version
To make a keto-friendly version, replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets. This will reduce the carb content significantly while still providing a delicious base for the casserole. Use heavy cream and full-fat cheese to maintain the creamy texture.
This creamy ham and potato casserole is a comforting and delicious meal that’s sure to impress your family and guests. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and makes for a perfect dinner any night of the week. Give this recipe a try, and you might find it becoming a regular part of your dinner rotation. Enjoy!
