This creamy ham and potato casserole is a delightful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s rich, cheesy, and incredibly comforting. The combination of tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy sauce makes it a favorite among both kids and adults. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will surely become a staple in your home.
Ingredients:
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cups milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, add the diced potatoes and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Onions:
- In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes, until it forms a smooth paste and begins to turn golden brown.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, diced ham, and sautéed onions. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the mixture and gently stir to coat everything evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Top the Casserole:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust.
- Optionally, sprinkle with additional paprika for a bit of color and flavor.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, for a pop of color and freshness.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the creamy ham and potato casserole warm. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Casserole:
- Evenly Cooked Potatoes:
- To ensure the potatoes are evenly cooked, cut them into uniform pieces. This prevents some pieces from being undercooked while others are overcooked.
- Cheese Selection:
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere, Swiss, or a sharp white cheddar can add unique flavors to the casserole.
- Ham:
- This recipe is a great way to use up leftover ham. You can also use pre-cooked ham from the grocery store for convenience.
- Make-Ahead:
- This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
- Adding Vegetables:
- For added nutrition and flavor, consider adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers to the casserole. Sauté them with the onions to soften before adding to the mix.
Variations:
- Chicken and Potato Casserole:
- Substitute the ham with cooked, diced chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Bacon and Potato Casserole:
- Use cooked, crumbled bacon instead of ham for a smoky, savory twist.
- Vegetarian Option:
- Omit the ham and add more vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, or spinach for a hearty vegetarian casserole.
- Spicy Kick:
- Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy variation.
This creamy ham and potato casserole is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and savory ham make it a comfort food favorite. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delicious blend of flavors and the ease of preparation with this timeless recipe!
