Ham Boats(Makes 4 Servings)

Prep: 15 min Cook: 5 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Ham Boats are savory baked potato shells filled with ham, onion, and creamy mashed potatoes, topped with melted cheese—perfect for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal.

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Ingredients

  • 4 baked potatoes
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 1/2 cups diced fully cooked ham
  • 4 tablespoons finely chopped onion
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Slice baked potatoes into halves lengthwise with a paring knife. Gently scoop out the inside of each potato.
  2. Mash the potato centers with sour cream and milk until smooth.
  3. Mix in diced ham, chopped onion, and dry mustard into the mashed potato mixture.
  4. Place the potato shells on a serving plate.
  5. Spoon the mashed potato mixture back into each shell.
  6. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of shredded Cheddar cheese on top of each filled shell.
  7. Microwave on 100% power for 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the potatoes are soft.
  8. If necessary, microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes until fully heated and cheese is melted. Enjoy!

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of cream cheese to the mashed potato mixture. You can substitute diced turkey or chicken for the ham to make it lighter or even add sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian version. If you prefer, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy twist.

Serving Suggestions

These ham boats make a hearty main dish and can be served alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. They also pair beautifully with Potato And Turkey Salad for a delightful spread. For a casual gathering, offer them as a buffet option and let guests customize their toppings.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the ham boats in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispier texture, consider reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Ham Boats(Makes 4 Servings) contains roughly 1314 calories, with 21g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value), potassium (42% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 801mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).

1314 kcal 66% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 21.1g 42% DV
Total Fat 82.2g 100% DV
Carbs 124.2g 45% DV
Fiber 9.4g 34% DV
Sugar 8.1g 16% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 801.2mg 35% DV
Potassium 1990mg 42% DV
Cholesterol 122.4mg 41% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 123mcg 14% DV
Vitamin C 28.1mg 31% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 318mg 24% DV
Iron 3.3mg 18% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk

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 fresh potatoes instead of baked ones?

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Just bake them until tender, then proceed with the recipe as outlined. This will give you a fluffy and delicious base for the ham mixture.

What other toppings can I add to the ham boats?

Feel free to customize your ham boats with additional toppings such as diced green peppers, jalapeños for a kick, or even crispy bacon bits. Experimenting with different cheeses, like pepper jack or gouda, can also enhance the flavor.

Can I make these ham boats ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potato mixture and fill the shells in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and simply reheat before serving. This makes them perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests.

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).

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