Easy Ham and Potato Casserole Your Family Will Love

Looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for any occasion? Say hello to the Ham and Potato Casserole! This hearty meal is a favorite among home cooks, busy parents, and food enthusiasts alike. It's not only versatile and delicious but also easy to prepare. Let's get started!

Ingredients You'll Need

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups of diced, cooked ham
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
• 1 cup of sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy flavor
• Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Peel and Slice the potatoes into thin rounds. Consistent thickness ensures even cooking.
2. Dice the Ham into bite-sized pieces.
3. Chop the Onion and mince the Garlic.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the Flour and whisk for about 1 minute to form a smooth roux.
3. Gradually Pour in the Milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens.
4. Season with Salt and Pepper to taste.
5. Stir in the Cheddar Cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your Oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer Half of the Potatoes in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
3. Top with Half of the Ham, Onion, and Garlic.
4. Pour Half of the Cheese Sauce over the layers.
5. Repeat the Layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, onion, and garlic.
6. Pour the Remaining Sauce evenly over the top.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the Dish with Foil to keep the moisture in.
2. Bake for 45 minutes.
3. Remove the Foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Tips for Perfect Cooking

• Check for Doneness by inserting a fork into the potatoes; they should be soft.
• Avoid a Burnt Top by adding a layer of foil if it starts to brown too quickly.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

• Serve Hot with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Store Leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the Oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave for quick reheating.

Optional Variations

• Add Vegetables such as frozen peas, mixed vegetables, or sliced mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Experiment with Cheese by using a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
• Herb it up with fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary to add an aromatic twist.

Final Thoughts

Creating a Ham and Potato Casserole is a simple and rewarding experience. Whether you're feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish offers comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Try it out, and don't forget to share your variations and tips with us!

Happy Cooking!