Potato, Cheese And Ham Casserole
A comforting casserole combining tender potatoes, melted Cheddar cheese, and savory ham, topped with crunchy bread crumbs—a hearty dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put sliced potatoes in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and drain.
- Transfer the potatoes to a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Melt 3 tablespoons of margarine in a saucepan.
- Stir in flour, salt, and pepper.
- Cook over low heat, stirring until it begins to bubble.
- Remove from heat.
- Add milk, stirring constantly.
- Return to heat and bring to a boil, stirring.
- When the sauce is slightly thickened, add the shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Continue stirring until the cheese is melted.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Add the cubed cooked ham and mix gently, being careful not to break the potatoes.
- Combine the bread crumbs with the remaining melted margarine.
- Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic powder or onion powder into the cheese sauce. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste. If you prefer a lighter dish, use low-fat milk instead of whole milk. Additionally, using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor profile of this casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty and pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, such as a Warm Spinach Salad, or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, serve it alongside Grandma Hill's Baked Beans or some crusty bread. It also works well as a side dish for grilled meats or pork recipes, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven will help maintain the texture of the bread crumbs.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato, Cheese And Ham Casserole contains roughly 1842 calories, with 23g protein, 189g carbohydrates, and 111g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (69% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (66% of the Daily Value), and protein (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2242mg per serving (97% 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 prepare the casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. You may need to increase the baking time slightly if it’s still cold from the fridge.
Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?
While fresh potatoes yield the best texture, you can use frozen sliced potatoes in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the casserole. This will help maintain the integrity of the dish and prevent sogginess.
What can I substitute for ham?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the ham entirely or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or cooked lentils for added protein. For a different flavor, consider using cooked bacon or turkey sausage as a substitute, which can add a smoky element to the casserole.
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).