Potatoes, Cheddar And Ham Casserole
A comforting casserole combining tender potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheddar cheese, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish offers hearty flavor and creamy textures that appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook peeled and sliced potatoes in a saucepan with water until tender, then drain and transfer to a greased 2-quart baking dish.
- Make a white sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over low heat, then stirring in flour, salt, and pepper. Cook until bubbling.
- Slowly add milk to the sauce, stirring constantly, then bring to a boil until slightly thickened.
- Add cheese to the sauce and stir until melted.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes in the baking dish.
- Add the cubed cooked ham and gently mix to combine without breaking the potatoes.
- Optional: Mix 1 cup dry breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic powder or smoked paprika into the cheese sauce. If you're out of milk, you can use half-and-half for a creamier texture, or even broth for a lighter option. To save time, use pre-cooked or leftover ham. For a twist, try adding some chopped green bell pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a hearty main dish that pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, serve with a side of crusty bread or a fruit salad. It also makes a great dish for potlucks, complementing other American recipes like Layered Summer Salad or Hot Dip.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture. Avoid reheating more than once for best quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potatoes, Cheddar And Ham Casserole contains roughly 1399 calories, with 13g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 91g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (44% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 624mg per serving (27% 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 fresh potatoes instead of pre-cooked?
Yes, fresh potatoes can be used. Simply peel and slice them, then cook them in water until tender before layering them in the casserole. This method ensures the potatoes are cooked properly and absorb the flavors of the cheese sauce.
What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different cheese, both Monterey Jack and Gruyère work well in this casserole. They provide a nice melt and flavor. You can even blend several cheeses for a richer taste. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts nicely.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Absolutely! You can omit the ham entirely or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added texture and flavor. This makes the dish suitable for vegetarians while still retaining its creamy, cheesy goodness.
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).