How to Create Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the creamy, cheesy goodness of a ham and potato casserole. This simple yet hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even leftovers! Don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned chef; this recipe is easy to follow and uses everyday ingredients you probably already have. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into making a cheesy ham and potato casserole your whole family will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:
- 6 medium potatoes (peeled and cubed)
- 2 cups cooked ham (diced)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choosing)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk works best)
- 1 cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour (to make the sauce)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional toppings: Chopped parsley or breadcrumbs for extra texture and flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Start by preparing the potatoes. Peel them and cut them into small cubes (about 1-inch pieces). This helps them cook faster and evenly. Put the potatoes in a large pot, add enough water to cover them, and sprinkle in a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then let the potatoes simmer for about 10–12 minutes until they’re slightly tender. Drain the water and set the cooked potatoes aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
If you’re using leftover ham from a holiday roast, great! Simply dice it into small chunks. If you don’t have cooked ham, you can buy pre-cooked ham at the grocery store. It adds a smoky, savory flavor to the casserole. Keep the diced ham handy for later.
Step 3: Make the Cheesy Sauce
Here’s where the magic happens—the sauce! Take a medium-sized saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour until the mixture turns smooth. This creates what’s known as a roux, which helps the sauce thicken.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Then, add the sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the sauce becomes creamy and starts to bubble (about 5–6 minutes). Reduce the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely. Taste the sauce, and if needed, add more seasoning to suit your preference.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Now it’s time to layer everything in the casserole dish! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Take a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread half of the cooked potatoes evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle half of the diced ham over the potatoes, then pour half of the cheesy sauce on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, and cheesy sauce, creating a mouthwatering combination.
If you want a crunchy topping for your casserole, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter or add extra shredded cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Place your assembled casserole in the preheated oven and let it bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is bubbly and golden brown. If you’re short on time, you can broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes to achieve a crispier top.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your cheesy ham and potato casserole is out of the oven, let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to scoop into servings.
You can garnish the casserole with chopped parsley for a pop of color or serve it with a side salad to round out the meal. This dish is satisfying on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with warm dinner rolls or steamed veggies.
Tips and Tricks
- Use leftover ingredients: This casserole is a fantastic way to repurpose leftover ham or potatoes.
- Add veggies: Feel free to toss in peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven.
- Try different cheeses: Switch up the flavors by using mozzarella, Gouda, or Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar.
Why Everyone Loves This Casserole
Cheesy ham and potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food because it’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. The potatoes are tender, the ham adds a salty bite, and the melted cheese ties everything together in a mouthwatering sauce. It’s filling, easy to make, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
So, whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself, give this recipe a try. With just a little effort, you’ll have a homemade casserole that’s sure to become a household favorite!
Enjoy your cheesy ham and potato casserole, and happy cooking!
