Name: Ham and Potato Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Ingredients: 3 cups potatoes, diced; 2 cups cooked ham, diced; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 3 tablespoons butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon paprika (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Creamy, cheesy, and packed with hearty flavors, this Ham and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish. Tender chunks of potatoes are combined with savory ham, enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, and baked to golden perfection. Each bite offers a delightful balance of textures — soft potatoes, crisped ham edges, and creamy sauce — making it a perfect family meal or potluck favorite.

Whether you’re using leftover ham or preparing it fresh, this casserole is incredibly easy to make and ideal for busy weeknights. Its versatility allows you to customize with different cheeses, herbs, or added veggies, making it a flexible yet satisfying option for any occasion. Warm, hearty, and full of nostalgic flavors, this dish is bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Ham and Potato Casserole

Comforting and Hearty: Perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave a warm, filling meal.
Great for Leftovers: A fantastic way to use up extra ham or potatoes in a delicious new way.
Customizable: Add vegetables, swap cheeses, or adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
Meal Prep Friendly: Easy to assemble ahead of time and bake when needed.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

For the best results, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need and why each tool is important:

Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For evenly chopping the potatoes and ham to ensure they cook uniformly.
Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for tossing the ingredients with seasoning and sauce.
Saucepan: To prepare the creamy cheese sauce that ties the whole dish together.
Whisk: Ensures the sauce remains smooth and lump-free.
9×13 Baking Dish: The ideal size for spreading the casserole mixture evenly, promoting even cooking.
Aluminum Foil: Helps prevent over-browning during the initial baking phase.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Useful for stirring and spreading the casserole mixture in the dish.

Preparation Tips

Uniform Cutting: Cut the potatoes into equal-sized cubes (about 1-inch) for even cooking.
Pre-cook Potatoes: Parboiling the potatoes for 5-7 minutes before baking speeds up the cooking process and ensures they turn out tender.
Cheese Choice: While cheddar is a classic choice, blending in mozzarella or Gruyère can add depth to the flavor.
Season Well: Don’t forget to add salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder to enhance the overall taste.
Layer Wisely: Spread the ham and potatoes evenly to ensure consistent flavor and texture in each bite.

Following these tips will help you achieve a rich, flavorful casserole with perfectly cooked ingredients.

Ingredients for This Ham and Potato Casserole

3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
2 cups cooked ham, diced
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese blend)
1 cup milk (whole milk or 2% for creaminess)
1 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for added warmth)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

1 cup frozen peas for added texture and sweetness
½ cup cooked bacon bits for extra savory flavor

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Ham

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and parboil for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.
Dice the cooked ham into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter.
Add 3 tablespoons of flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux.
Gradually pour in 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Once the sauce thickens, stir in 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

In a large mixing bowl, combine the parboiled potatoes and diced ham.
Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheese over the top for extra cheesiness.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness.

Enjoy this rich and comforting Ham and Potato Casserole fresh out of the oven!

Notes

Potato Texture: For a firmer texture, use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold. If you prefer a softer, melt-in-your-mouth texture, Russet potatoes are a great choice.
Cheese Variations: Mixing cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack can elevate the flavor.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Make It Heartier: Stir in extra cooked bacon, sausage, or even sautéed mushrooms for added richness.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham and add roasted vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Potatoes: Parboiling too long can make them mushy in the casserole. Aim for slightly tender, not fully cooked.
Lumpy Sauce: Be sure to whisk constantly when preparing the roux and gradually add the milk to achieve a smooth consistency.
Skipping Seasoning: Potatoes absorb flavor, so ensure you season each layer — from the sauce to the potato-ham mix.
Uneven Cheese Distribution: Mix some cheese into the casserole itself and sprinkle more on top for the best flavor throughout.
Baking Without Covering: Failing to cover the dish for the first part of baking may result in the top browning too quickly while the potatoes remain undercooked.

Following these tips will ensure your Ham and Potato Casserole comes out rich, creamy, and perfectly textured.

What to Serve With Ham and Potato Casserole?

This rich and creamy dish pairs wonderfully with lighter sides that balance its comforting flavors. Here are some great options:

8 Recommended Sides

Green Salad: A crisp salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the casserole.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed or roasted broccoli provides a nutritious, vibrant side that complements the creamy texture.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter taste pairs well with the savory ham and potatoes.
Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy coleslaw adds a delightful contrast in texture.
Pickled Vegetables: The tanginess cuts through the casserole’s richness beautifully.
Fruit Salad: A sweet and citrusy fruit salad provides a refreshing finish to your meal.
Soup: A light broth-based soup, such as vegetable or chicken noodle, makes a comforting starter alongside the casserole.

Pairing your Ham and Potato Casserole with one or more of these sides creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or covering the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes until warmed through. To maintain moisture, cover with foil while reheating. Individual portions can also be microwaved for 2-3 minutes on medium power.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: ~350 kcal
Protein: ~18g
Carbohydrates: ~30g
Fat: ~18g
Saturated Fat: ~9g
Cholesterol: ~60mg
Fiber: ~3g
Sodium: ~750mg

Nutrition values may vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature for about 20 minutes, then bake as directed.

2. Can I use raw potatoes instead of parboiling them?

You can, but parboiling speeds up the cooking process and ensures the potatoes are tender. If using raw potatoes, increase the baking time by about 15-20 minutes.

3. What’s the best cheese for this casserole?

Cheddar is a classic choice, but combining it with mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack adds even more flavor and creaminess.

4. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Broccoli, bell peppers, peas, or spinach make great additions for extra color and nutrients.

5. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If your sauce thickens too much while cooking, whisk in a splash of milk until it reaches the desired consistency.

6. Is this casserole gluten-free?

No, but you can easily make it gluten-free by replacing the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend or cornstarch for thickening.

7. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to retain moisture. Individual portions can be microwaved for 2-3 minutes.

8. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Yes! Sweet potatoes add a slightly sweeter flavor and pair wonderfully with the savory ham and creamy sauce.

Conclusion

This Ham and Potato Casserole is the perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining guests, or using up leftover ham, this dish never disappoints. With its creamy texture, golden cheesy topping, and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy it as a cozy weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing potluck favorite — it’s always a winning choice!