Creamy Potato and Ham Bake

This Creamy Potato and Ham Bake is the ultimate comfort food! With tender sliced potatoes, savory diced ham, and a rich, cheesy sauce, it’s a dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Perfect for fall evenings or family gatherings, this casserole is hearty, satisfying, and easy to make.

Did You Know?
Potato casseroles have been a family favorite for generations due to their affordability and versatility. Adding ham not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the protein content, making it a complete and balanced meal.

Yield
Serves 6

Ingredients

For the Layers:
6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
2 cups cooked ham, thinly sliced bits of ham
1 medium onion, finely chopped

For the Cheese Sauce:
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping (Optional):
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Ham
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish, followed by half of the diced ham and half of the chopped onion. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, ham, and onion.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Stir in the cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the potato and ham layers, ensuring it covers all the ingredients.

Step 4: Add the Topping (Optional)
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and paprika (if using). Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 5: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.

Step 6: Serve
Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set. Enjoy with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 350, Protein: 15g, Carbohydrates: 38g, Fiber: 3g, Net Carbohydrates: 35g, Fat: 15g, Saturated Fat: 8g, Cholesterol: 50mg, Sodium: 820mg, Sugars: 7g, Glycemic Index: Medium

Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

1. Use a mandoline slicer for even, thin potato slices that cook evenly.
2. Substitute the ham with leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken for variety.
3. Make the casserole vegetarian by replacing ham with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
4. Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
5. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently in the oven.
6. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese and milk.
7. Save time by using pre-shredded cheese, though grating your own provides better melting.
8. Freeze unbaked portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
9. For a crunchy topping, crush crackers or cornflakes instead of breadcrumbs.
10. Serve this casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to balance the richness.

Let’s Learn About Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese, one of the most popular cheeses in the world, originates from England and is known for its rich, tangy flavor. It melts beautifully, making it ideal for creamy dishes like this casserole. Did you know that aged cheddar has a more robust flavor compared to mild cheddar? For the best results, choose a sharp or extra-sharp cheddar for this recipe to complement the ham and potatoes perfectly. Adjust the cheese amount to suit your taste preferences or try mixing in Gruyère for a more gourmet touch!