Ham and potato casserole is a timeless dish that brings together the comforting flavors of tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy cheese. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this casserole is both hearty and satisfying. It’s an excellent way to use up leftover ham and can be made ahead of time for convenience. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Potatoes: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, or until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, melted butter, milk, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried parsley. Mix until well blended.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked potatoes, diced ham, chopped onion, minced garlic, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl with the sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. If using, sprinkle the crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs over the cheese for an extra crunchy topping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Conclusion
This cheesy ham and potato casserole is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with the savory flavor of ham. It’s a perfect dish for any occasion and pairs well with a variety of sides. Enjoy this comforting classic with your loved ones!
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
2. Can I freeze ham and potato casserole?
Absolutely! After assembling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
3. What can I serve with ham and potato casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of sides such as a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Certainly! While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or Gruyere for different flavors.
5. How can I make this casserole healthier?
To make a healthier version, you can use low-fat cream of mushroom soup and cheese. You can also add more vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach to increase the nutritional value.
6. Can I add other ingredients to this casserole?
Yes, this recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add ingredients like diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious ham and potato casserole with your friends and family! 🥔🧀🍖
Feel free to ask if you need more recipes or have any other questions!