Ultimate Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe for Comfort Food

The aroma of a bubbling ham and potato casserole wafting through the kitchen is enough to make even the pickiest eaters swoon. Picture golden, crispy edges giving way to creamy, cheesy goodness that’s like a warm hug on a cold day. sweet potato mash side dish This dish isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia served in a baking dish, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. savory garlic butter beef bites.

Jump to:

• <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
• <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
• Preheat Your Oven
• Prepare Your Potatoes
• Mix the Creamy Filling
• Layer It Up
• Pour Over That Creamy Goodness
• Bake It Beautifully
• <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
• <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
• <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
• <strong>FAQ</strong>
• What type of potatoes work best for ham and potato casserole?
• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
• Is it possible to freeze ham and potato casserole?

Remember those winter evenings spent huddled around the dinner table, laughing and sharing stories? My grandmother would whip up her famous ham and potato casserole, transforming our home into a haven of comfort and joy. comforting meatball soup It’s a dish that brings people together, making it perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without breaking a sweat.

I still chuckle when I recall my cousin’s face after taking his first bite. “This is basically heaven in a casserole dish!” he exclaimed, promptly going back for seconds.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Potatoes: Choose starchy varieties like Russets for fluffy texture; they absorb flavors beautifully.
• Diced Ham: Use leftover holiday ham or store-bought diced ham for convenience; both work great.
• Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for robust flavor that elevates the casserole’s richness.
• Heavy Cream: Provides luscious creaminess; substitute with half-and-half if you’re looking to lighten it up.
• Green Onions: Freshly chopped green onions add brightness and a mild onion flavor, enhancing overall taste.
• Butter: A bit of butter adds richness; use unsalted to control the sodium level.
• Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder infuses lovely depth into the dish without overpowering other flavors.
• Pepper and Salt: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors; adjust according to personal preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, you can gather your ingredients so everything is ready at hand.

Prepare Your Potatoes

Peel and slice potatoes thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. Rinse slices under cold water to remove excess starch.

Mix the Creamy Filling

In a large bowl, combine heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended; this will be the glorious sauce that binds everything together.

Layer It Up

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the potatoes first followed by half of the diced ham. Sprinkle some cheddar cheese on top before repeating these layers—potatoes, ham, cheese—until all ingredients are used.

Pour Over That Creamy Goodness

Carefully pour the creamy filling over the layered potatoes and ham. Use a spatula gently press down any floating bits that need some love from that luscious sauce.

Bake It Beautifully

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Remove foil during the last 15 minutes to let that cheese get bubbly and golden brown.

And voilà! Your ham and potato casserole is ready to steal the show at dinner tonight!

Once you serve this delightful creation, prepare yourself for an avalanche of compliments followed by requests for seconds—and maybe thirds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the perfect ham and potato casserole, layer your ingredients in a baking dish: potatoes, ham, and cheese, then pour the creamy sauce over them before baking. delicious potato corn chowder This method ensures even cooking and a delightful blend of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. You can also swap out the cheese for your favorite varieties to create unique flavors. For more inspiration, check out this roasted carrots with ricotta recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it retains its creamy goodness.

Sharing this casserole recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone fought over the last bite, reminding me how food truly brings people together. For more inspiration, check out this sausage and peppers recipe.

FAQ

What type of potatoes work best for ham and potato casserole?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creaminess and flavor.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Is it possible to freeze ham and potato casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking for convenient future meals.