Baked Potato And Ham Casserole
A hearty baked potato and ham casserole combining tender potatoes, savory ham, vegetables, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Place diced potatoes, chopped celery, chopped onions, and chopped green pepper in a deep casserole dish and cover with water.
- Cook until vegetables are tender but not fully cooked.
- Drain off the water and add chopped ham, cream of mushroom soup, and margarine to the casserole dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Just before serving, sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Return to the oven until the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before baking. If you prefer a bit of spice, mix in some diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese instead of Cheddar. You can also substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different twist. Make sure to chop your vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Consider serving it alongside dinner rolls or a crusty baguette for a complete meal. For a comforting brunch option, serve with a side of scrambled eggs or a fruit salad. It’s perfect for gatherings and potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in the microwave until heated through, or re-bake in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent drying out, until warm. This casserole also freezes well; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Potato And Ham Casserole contains roughly 1651 calories, with 13g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 140g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), potassium (44% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1403mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses can enhance the flavor profile. Just ensure they melt well to achieve that gooey top layer you desire.
How do I know if the potatoes are done cooking?
The potatoes should be tender but not mushy. You can test them by piercing a piece with a fork; if it goes through easily but still holds its shape, they're ready to be drained and mixed with the other ingredients.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes, for a vegetarian option, you can omit the ham and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or additional vegetables like zucchini and spinach. Use vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the potatoes for added flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).