This classic Ham & Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish combining tender potatoes, savory ham, and melted sharp cheddar cheese in a creamy sauce. It's a beloved staple in many American households thanks to its simplicity, affordability, and satisfying flavor. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday leftovers, this casserole highlights how basic ingredients can yield rich and nostalgic results.
Ingredients
- 2 potatoes (large, unpeeled and scrubbed)
- 4 oz cooked ham (chopped)
- ½ cup onion (chopped )
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp flour
- ¼ tsp paprika
- ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded )
- Water (for boiling potatoes)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Potatoes
- Cover potatoes in a saucepan with water to 1″ above.
- Cover, bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes or until tender.
- Remove potatoes and let cool slightly. Cut into ½” slices.
Step 2: Layer Casserole
- Place sliced potatoes, ham, and chopped onion into a greased 2-qt casserole dish. Mix lightly.
Step 3: Make Sauce
- Measure milk in a 2-cup or larger measuring cup.
- Sprinkle in flour and paprika.
- Use a whisk to blend well.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
- Pour milk mixture over the potato-ham mixture.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes.
Tips
- Add peas, corn, or green beans for extra vegetables.
- Use leftover holiday ham for even better flavor.
- Replace cheddar with Colby, Gruyère, or pepper jack for variety.
- Add garlic powder or minced garlic to deepen flavor.
- Stir in sour cream for a creamier, richer casserole.
- Top with buttered breadcrumbs for a crunchy crust.
- Substitute smoked turkey or bacon if ham isn’t available.
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
- Add diced bell pepper for sweetness and color.
- Make ahead and refrigerate before baking for easier weeknight meals.
Nutrition
Calories: 294kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 15gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 620mgPotassium: 760mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 17mgCalcium: 140mgIron: 1.4mg
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