Baked Ham and Potato Casserole: A Deliciously Simple Comfort Food

For a meal that’s hearty, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, this Baked Ham and Potato Casserole is the perfect choice! Combining tender potatoes, smoky ham, and layers of gooey cheese, this dish is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a great option for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or meal prepping for the week.

Ingredients

This recipe serves 6-8 people:

• 5 medium potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
• 2 cups of cooked ham (diced or sliced)
• 1 medium onion (thinly sliced)
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 ½ cups of heavy cream or whole milk
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Equipment Needed

• Large saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Aluminum foil
• Mandoline slicer (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth to make a roux.
3. Slowly pour in the cream or milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in garlic powder, paprika (if using), and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of the baking dish.
2. Add a layer of potatoes, slightly overlapping each slice.
3. Top with ham and onion slices, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese.
4. Repeat the layers (potatoes, ham, onions, cheese, sauce) until all ingredients are used. Finish with a layer of cheddar cheese on top for added richness.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and flavor.

Tips for Success

• For faster cooking, parboil the potatoes for 5 minutes before slicing.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or mustard powder to the sauce for extra depth.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven.

This Baked Ham and Potato Casserole is a delicious way to combine simple ingredients into a dish that’s packed with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again.

Try it today and enjoy the comforting layers of this cheesy, hearty casserole. Don’t forget to tag us in your photos on social media so we can see your amazing creations! 🥔🧀✨