Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that always brings a smile to my face. I remember the first time I tried this delightful casserole at a family gathering. The combination of creamy potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheese was simply irresistible. Since then, I have made it countless times, tweaking the recipe to suit my family’s taste. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients for Ham and Potato Casserole
To make this delicious casserole, you will need the following ingredients. I often keep these staples on hand, making it easy to whip up this dish whenever the craving strikes.
- 4 cups of potatoes, peeled and sliced thin
- 2 cups of cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup (or homemade if you prefer)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- ½ teaspoon of paprika
- ½ cup of milk
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter for greasing the baking dish
How to Make Ham and Potato Casserole
Preparing this casserole is quite simple. I usually start by preheating my oven to 350°F. While the oven heats up, I grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter. This step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Next, I slice the potatoes thinly. I find that using a mandoline slicer can speed up this process, but a sharp knife works just fine. After slicing, I set the potatoes aside and chop the onion.
Layering the Casserole
Now it’s time to layer the ingredients. I start with a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Then, I sprinkle a portion of the diced ham and chopped onions over the potatoes.
I repeat this layering process until all the potatoes, ham, and onion are used up. This method ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
Mixing the Sauce
In a separate bowl, I mix the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. This creamy mixture adds richness to the casserole. I stir until everything is well combined, and then pour it evenly over the layered potatoes and ham.
Adding Cheese
The best part of any casserole is the cheese. I sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the casserole. The cheese melts beautifully while baking, creating a deliciously gooey topping that everyone loves.
Baking the Casserole
Once everything is assembled, I cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This step helps the casserole cook evenly and prevents it from drying out. I bake it in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. After that, I remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Letting it Rest
After taking the casserole out of the oven, I always let it rest for about 10 minutes. This waiting period allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. The aroma wafting through the house during this time is simply mouthwatering.
Serving Ham and Potato Casserole
I love serving Ham and Potato Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the casserole, making for a well-rounded meal. It also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or rolls for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Storing Leftovers
If there are any leftovers (which is rare in my house), I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This casserole keeps well for about 3 to 4 days. Reheating it in the oven or microwave brings back its delightful flavors.
Freezing the Casserole
This casserole also freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal. I usually prepare it up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze. When I’m ready to enjoy it, I thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Why I Love Ham and Potato Casserole
What I love most about Ham and Potato Casserole is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers. You can also switch up the cheese or use leftover turkey instead of ham.
If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying meal, this Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe is a must-try. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish as much as I do.