Potato And Ham Casserole
A hearty potato and ham casserole with melted cheese and a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings that enjoy savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cubed potatoes ⓘ
- 1 cup sliced carrots ⓘ
- 1 cup chopped celery ⓘ
- 2 cups cubed cooked ham ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons chopped onion ⓘ
- 1/4 cup margarine ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons flour ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups milk ⓘ
- 3/4 cup shredded cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 cup soft bread crumbs ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook potatoes, carrots, and celery until crisp-tender. Drain and set aside.
- Cook ham, green pepper, and onion in 2 tablespoons margarine in a skillet until golden.
- Place the ham mixture and cooked vegetables in a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Melt 2 tablespoons margarine in a saucepan over low heat.
- Add flour and thyme; stir until smooth.
- Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Add milk; cook and stir over medium heat until thickened and bubbly.
- Stir in shredded cheese, salt, and pepper; melt the cheese.
- Pour the sauce over the mixture in the casserole.
- Sprinkle with soft bread crumbs.
- Bake at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a bit of sour cream to the cheese sauce. You can substitute the ham with leftover turkey or chicken for a different flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, use olive oil instead of margarine and low-fat cheese. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can enhance the flavor as well, making it an excellent companion to a side of American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious on its own but can be served with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish. For a comforting dinner, pair it with crusty bread or biscuits, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker meal, but the oven will help maintain the casserole's texture and prevent it from becoming soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato And Ham Casserole contains roughly 914 calories, with 19g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (239% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (82% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1806mg per serving (79% 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 and vegetables for this casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen potatoes and vegetables. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the casserole to avoid excess moisture. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a great choice for its melty texture and sharp flavor, but you can also mix in Monterey Jack for creaminess or even use a blend of cheeses. Just ensure the cheese melts well for a creamy sauce.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time 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).