Ham Party Casserole
A comforting ham and potato casserole layered with green beans, melted cheese, and crispy bread crumbs, perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make white sauce and add grated cheese and almonds.
- Arrange cooked and sliced potatoes in a greased 2-quart casserole.
- Cover potatoes with drained green beans.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the green beans and potatoes.
- Add diced cooked ham and the remaining cheese sauce.
- Mix melted butter with bread crumbs.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs over the top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes or until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk in the cheese sauce. If you want to add some crunch, toss in some chopped nuts or crispy onions. For a twist, you can replace the green beans with broccoli or asparagus. Ensure your potatoes are well-cooked to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. You can serve it with a side of cranberry sauce for a touch of sweetness. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Martha'S Four Alarm Chili. It’s also great for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can easily be doubled for larger crowds.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Party Casserole contains roughly 1150 calories, with 19g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 609mg per serving (26% 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 a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for grated cheese, you can substitute it with cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend of your favorites. Just ensure that the cheese melts well for the best texture and flavor.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. You can also use vegetable broth in the cheese sauce for added flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
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).