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Comforting Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole

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A warm, cheesy casserole combining tender russet potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for easy weeknight dinners or comforting family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/4 inch thick)
  • 2 cups cooked ham, diced (leftover or store-bought smoked ham)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or 2% milk if preferred)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for richness)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes about 1/4 inch thick. Set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds without browning.
  4. Sprinkle flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Whisk constantly for about 2 minutes to cook out raw flour taste.
  5. Slowly pour in milk and cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Remove sauce from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the casserole dish. Spread half of the diced ham over the potatoes. Pour half of the cheese sauce on top and spread gently. Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, ham, and cheese sauce.
  8. Melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter and brush over the top layer. Sprinkle paprika evenly on top.
  9. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until potatoes are tender and top is golden and bubbling.
  10. Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to set and cool slightly.

Notes

If top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil halfway through baking. For gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese. Potato slices should be about 1/4 inch thick for best texture. Can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated; add 10-15 minutes to baking time if baking cold.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy ham casserole, potato casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, baked casserole, family meal, leftover ham recipe

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/comforting-cheesy-ham-and-potato-casserole-recipe-easy-homemade-dinner-idea/