Potato, Ham And Cheese Casserole
A comforting casserole combining tender potatoes, smoky ham, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Rich and hearty with a cheesy, savory flavor, this dish offers a satisfying blend of textures and tastes that appeals to all ages and makes for easy, crowd-pleasing comfort food.
Ingredients
- 5 to 6 medium potatoes, peeled and cut in large chunks ⓘ
- 1/4 cup margarine ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- dash black pepper ⓘ
- 3 cups tender smoked ham, diced ⓘ
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon flour ⓘ
- 4 tablespoons water ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups mild Cheddar cheese, grated ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon chopped pimiento (optional) ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Combine ham, potatoes, margarine, salt, pepper, and evaporated milk in a large saucepan, with just enough water to cover the ingredients.
- Cook until the potatoes are tender.
- Add flour and water to the saucepan to thicken the mixture.
- Stir in 1 cup of grated Cheddar cheese and chopped pimiento (if using) until well combined.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with remaining cheese if desired.
- Bake until bubbly and cheese is melted, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, substitute half of the evaporated milk with sour cream. If you prefer a little spice, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. You can also use leftover turkey or chicken in place of the ham. Ensure the potatoes are cut uniformly for even cooking. This casserole is great for meal prep and can be made a day ahead.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious served with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Mama'S Coffee Cake for dessert, making it a perfect option for family gatherings or potlucks. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or rolls.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the cheese topping crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato, Ham And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 1244 calories, with 39g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (87% of the Daily Value), protein (78% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2121mg per serving (92% 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 other types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor. Mixing cheeses can create a unique taste profile that enhances the dish. Just ensure that any cheese you choose melts well.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just assemble it, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I serve with this dish?
This hearty casserole pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple mixed greens salad, roasted vegetables, or even some crusty garlic bread. It’s versatile enough to complement many dishes, making it a crowd-pleaser.
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).