Best Easy Creamy Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe

Creamy ham and potato casserole layers diced ham and sliced potatoes in a velvety cheese sauce for a hearty family dinner. This protein-rich comfort food is perfect for using leftover holiday ham.

Cook 65 min Difficulty NORMAL 340 kcal
#high protein #comfort food #family dinner #ham recipes
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • russet potatoes 4 medium
  • cooked ham 2 cups
  • yellow onion 1 medium
  • shredded cheddar cheese 2 cups
  • whole milk 1.5 cups
  • unsalted butter 3 tbsp
  • all-purpose flour 3 tbsp
Seasonings/Sauce
  • salt 0.75 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • garlic powder 0.5 tsp
  • dried thyme 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 29 g 34%
Protein 19 g 22%
Fat 15 g 39%
Serving size 260g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with a small amount of butter.

  2. 2

    Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes, and dice the ham and onion. Set aside.

  3. 3

    In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tbsp of butter. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.

  4. 4

    Sprinkle in flour. Stir for about 1 minute to remove the raw taste, then slowly whisk in milk. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Cook, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened (around 4–5 minutes).

  5. 5

    Remove from heat and stir in 1.5 cups of cheddar cheese until melted and smooth, reserving 0.5 cup for topping.

  6. 6

    In the prepared dish, layer half the potatoes, half the ham, and pour over half the cheese sauce. Repeat the layers with remaining potatoes, ham, and sauce.

  7. 7

    Top with reserved cheddar cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.

  8. 8

    Uncover and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is golden and bubbling.

  9. 9

    Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this creamy ham and potato casserole recipe?
The star ingredients in this casserole are diced ham and sliced russet potatoes. These two provide the dish's signature savory flavor and heartiness, while the cheddar cheese sauce brings a creamy, rich texture that ties everything together.
Q. How can I avoid overcooking or undercooking the potatoes in this casserole?
To ensure perfectly cooked potatoes, slice them thinly and bake the covered casserole for 40 minutes, then finish uncovered for 25–30 minutes. This sequence allows the potatoes to steam and soften before the topping browns, resulting in fork-tender layers with a bubbly golden finish.
Q. What makes the cheese sauce creamy and smooth?
Whisking all-purpose flour into melted butter creates a roux, which thickens the milk into a velvety base. Stirring in cheddar cheese off the heat prevents scorching, yielding a smooth, luscious sauce for the casserole.
Q. How many calories and how much protein are in each serving?
Each 260g serving contains about 340 calories and 19g of protein, making it a hearty, protein-rich family dish.
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