Cheesy Potato Ham Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Cheesy potato ham casserole: just the name conjures up images of cozy nights, comforting aromas, and a dish that’s guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Have you ever craved a meal that feels like a warm hug? This is it! This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a culinary time machine, whisking you back to Grandma’s kitchen where simple ingredients transformed into pure magic.

While the exact origins of cheesy potato ham casserole are a bit hazy, its roots are firmly planted in the tradition of resourceful home cooking. Casseroles, in general, became incredibly popular during the mid-20th century as families sought affordable and convenient ways to feed a crowd. This particular variation, with its hearty combination of potatoes, ham, and cheese, quickly became a staple in many households, especially after holidays when leftover ham needed a delicious purpose.

What makes this dish so universally loved? It’s the perfect trifecta of flavors and textures. The creamy, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes, the savory saltiness of the ham, and the gooey, cheesy goodness create an irresistible symphony on your palate. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a weeknight winner. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or a potluck crowd-pleaser, this cheesy potato ham casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese, divided
• 1 1/2 cups diced cooked ham
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter, for topping

Preparing the Potatoes and Onions:

1. First, let’s get those potatoes ready! Place the peeled and cubed Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water, ensuring the water level is about an inch above the potatoes. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water – this will help season the potatoes as they cook.
2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork, but they shouldn’t be falling apart.
3. While the potatoes are cooking, let’s move on to the onions. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to brown the onions too much; we just want them to be nice and tender.
4. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well in a colander. Set them aside for now. We’ll be adding them to the cheese sauce later.

Making the Creamy Cheese Sauce:

1. Now for the star of the show – the creamy, cheesy sauce! In the same skillet or Dutch oven you used for the onions (no need to clean it!), melt another 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is melted, whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes, until the mixture forms a smooth paste, also known as a roux. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce, so don’t skip it! Make sure to cook out the raw flour taste.
3. Slowly pour in 3 cups of whole milk, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and starts to thicken. This may take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika. These spices will add a wonderful depth of flavor to the sauce.
5. Now it’s time for the cheese! Remove the skillet from the heat. Add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 3/4 cup of the shredded Gruyere cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. The residual heat from the sauce will melt the cheese perfectly.
6. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt or pepper to your liking.

Assembling the Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish.
2. Add the drained and cooked potatoes and the cooked onions to the cheese sauce. Gently stir to combine, making sure the potatoes are evenly coated in the sauce.
3. Add the diced cooked ham to the potato and cheese sauce mixture. Stir gently to distribute the ham throughout the casserole.
4. Pour the potato, ham, and cheese sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Preparing the Topping and Baking:

1. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Toss to coat the breadcrumbs evenly. This will create a golden brown and crispy topping for the casserole.
2. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of shredded Gruyere cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
3. Sprinkle the buttered panko breadcrumbs over the cheese. This will add a nice textural contrast to the creamy casserole.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned.
5. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set slightly and prevent it from being too runny.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. This will add a pop of color and freshness to the casserole.

Tips and Variations:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in this casserole. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a smoked Gouda would be delicious additions.
• Vegetable Additions: You can add other vegetables to this casserole, such as steamed broccoli florets, cooked green beans, or sautéed mushrooms.
• Ham Alternatives: If you don’t have ham on hand, you can use cooked bacon, sausage, or even leftover roasted chicken or turkey.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking. You may need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a little bit of heat.
• Cream Cheese Addition: For an extra creamy casserole, stir in 4 ounces of softened cream cheese to the cheese sauce along with the other cheeses.
• Using Frozen Hash Browns: If you’re short on time, you can substitute the cubed potatoes with frozen hash browns. Thaw them slightly before adding them to the casserole.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the cheese sauce and gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting cheesy potato ham casserole! I hope you and your family love it as much as mine does. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Conclusion:

This cheesy potato ham casserole isn’t just another recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a comforting classic elevated to something truly special. The creamy, cheesy sauce, the tender potatoes, and the savory ham all come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and incredibly easy to make. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, then trust me, this is it.

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s more than just a casserole; it’s a memory in the making. It’s the kind of dish that evokes feelings of home, family, and cozy evenings spent around the table. It’s versatile enough to be a weeknight dinner staple or a show-stopping centerpiece for a potluck or holiday gathering. And let’s be honest, who can resist the allure of perfectly melted cheese and savory ham nestled amongst fluffy potatoes?

But the best part? It’s incredibly adaptable! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses – Gruyere, sharp cheddar, or even a smoky Gouda would all be fantastic additions. If you’re not a fan of ham, try using leftover roasted chicken or turkey instead. For a vegetarian twist, you could add sautéed mushrooms, broccoli florets, or spinach. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce can add a delightful kick.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Serve it as a main course with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad.
* Make it ahead of time and bake it just before serving – perfect for busy weeknights.
* For a heartier meal, add a layer of cooked bacon crumbles on top before baking.
* Individualize it! Bake the casserole in muffin tins for perfectly portioned servings.
* Top with crispy fried onions for added texture and flavor.
* Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
* For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
* Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter, more vibrant casserole.

I truly believe that this cheesy potato ham casserole will become a new family favorite. It’s a recipe that’s sure to impress, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen. It’s simple, delicious, and endlessly customizable.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible casserole. I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any variations? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos, comments, and stories in the comments section below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear all about your cheesy potato ham casserole adventures! Happy cooking!

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