Cheesy Ham Potato Casserole
A creamy, cheesy ham and potato casserole packed with comforting flavors. The tender potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheese create a satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Easy to prepare and bake, it offers a hearty, cheesy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion in melted butter in a large saucepan until tender.
- Add flour, salt, and dry mustard. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly.
- Cook over medium heat until thickened.
- Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese, stirring until melted.
- Add cooked ham and cooked potatoes to the mixture.
- Spoon the mixture into a greased 2-quart shallow baking dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 25 minutes.
- Sprinkle with remaining shredded cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of sour cream or cream cheese to the cheese mixture. If you want a little heat, incorporating some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can enhance the flavor. You can substitute the cooked ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different protein option. This casserole also pairs well with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Ham Potato Casserole is a hearty dish that can be served as a main course or a side. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a comforting dinner, consider serving it alongside American recipes like Cowboy Bean Soup or a classic Water Chestnut Salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. If the casserole seems dry, add a splash of milk before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Ham Potato Casserole contains roughly 1059 calories, with 6g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 89g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1407mg 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 frozen potatoes for this casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen hash browns or diced potatoes in this casserole. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding them to the mixture to prevent excess moisture, which could make the casserole soggy.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Sharp cheddar cheese is a great choice for its robust flavor, but you can also mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a unique twist. Experiment with a blend to find your favorite combination!
Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).