Ham and Potato Casserole Tasty Comfort Food Recipe

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Looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and your taste buds? This Ham and Potato Casserole is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor. Packed with simple ingredients and endless variations, you can easily make it fit your family’s needs. In this post, I’ll guide you through the steps to create your own mouthwatering casserole, plus tips for serving and storing leftovers. Let’s get cooking!

What Ingredients Do You Need for the Perfect Ham and Potato Casserole?

A ham and potato casserole recipe needs simple, hearty ingredients. You start with 4 cups of diced potatoes. Russet or Yukon Gold work best. They give the dish a great texture. Next, you need 2 cups of cooked ham, cut into cubes. This adds rich flavor to your casserole.

You will also want 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Cheese makes everything better, right? Then, grab 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of milk. These two create a creamy sauce. Don’t forget 1 onion, finely chopped, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. These add depth and aroma.

For seasoning, use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Salt and pepper to taste is a must. If you like, you can also add 1 cup of frozen peas for color and sweetness. Finally, grab 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs for a crispy topping and 2 tablespoons of melted butter to mix with those crumbs.

What are the essential ingredients for a classic recipe?

The essential ingredients for a classic ham and potato casserole include potatoes, ham, cheese, cream, and milk. These ingredients blend well together. They create a dish that is creamy and flavorful.

Are there variations for dietary restrictions or preferences?

Yes, there are many variations. For a lighter version, you can use low-fat milk and cheese. If you want a vegetarian option, skip the ham and add more veggies. You can use mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. For gluten-free, replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers.

How do you choose the best type of ham for the casserole?

Choosing the best ham is key. A fully cooked ham is easiest to use. Look for a flavor you enjoy, like honey-glazed or smoked. The right ham adds a lot of taste. When picking, check the texture too. It should be moist and tender. Remember, the ham will shine in your casserole!

For the full recipe, check the details and get cooking!

How Do You Prepare the Ham and Potato Casserole Step by Step?

To make an easy ham and potato casserole, follow these steps closely.

What are the key steps in preparing the casserole?

1. Preheat the oven. Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it heats up while you prepare the dish.

2. Boil the potatoes. Dice four cups of potatoes. Boil them in salted water for about ten minutes. They should be slightly tender. Drain and set them aside.

3. Mix the ingredients. In a large bowl, combine two cups of cubed cooked ham, one cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, one chopped onion, and two minced garlic cloves. Add the drained potatoes, one teaspoon of dried thyme, and one teaspoon of paprika. Mix everything well.

4. Prepare the cream mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together one cup of heavy cream, one cup of milk, salt, and pepper. Pour this over the potato and ham mix. Stir until all is coated.

5. Add peas if desired. If you like, fold in one cup of frozen peas gently.

6. Transfer to baking dish. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish.

7. Add the topping. In a small bowl, mix half a cup of breadcrumbs with two tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this on top of the casserole.

8. Bake. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

9. Cool before serving. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How long does it take to make a ham and potato casserole?

The total time to make this casserole is about 60 minutes. The prep time is around 15 minutes. Baking takes about 45 minutes.

What tips can help ensure your casserole turns out perfectly?

To make your casserole shine, use fresh ingredients. Choose quality ham and cheese for the best flavor. Don’t skip the boiling step for the potatoes; it helps them cook evenly. Monitor the baking time to avoid burning the top. Finally, let it cool briefly before serving to help it set.

A ham and potato casserole recipe needs simple, hearty ingredients. You start with <strong>4 cups of diced potatoes</strong>. Russet or Yukon Gold work best. They give the dish a great texture. Next, you need <strong>2 cups of cooked ham</strong>, cut into cubes. This adds rich flavor to your casserole.” /></p>
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<h2>What Are Some Creative Variations of Ham and Potato Casserole?</h2>
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<p>You can easily modify the ham and potato casserole to fit your taste. Add veggies like broccoli or bell peppers for extra flavor and color. Swap out the cheese for something like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist. You can even use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter flavor.</p>
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<p>If you want a lighter version, try using low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative. You can replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt to cut calories while keeping it creamy. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also boost the flavor without extra fat.</p>
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<p>For different cooking methods, use a slow cooker. Just layer the ingredients and set it on low for 6-8 hours. This method makes the flavors blend well and keeps the casserole moist. You can also bake it in a cast iron skillet for a nice crust on the bottom.</p>
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<p>Don’t forget to check the Full Recipe for more ideas and exact measurements!</p>
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<h2>How Can You Enhance the Flavor of Your Ham and Potato Casserole?</h2>
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<p>To make a creamy potato casserole with ham stand out, you need to think about flavors.</p>
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<h3>What spices and herbs work best in this casserole?</h3>
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<p>Using the right spices can change everything. I love adding dried thyme and paprika. Thyme brings a nice earthy flavor. Paprika adds warmth and a hint of sweetness. You can also try rosemary or parsley for fresh notes. Always taste as you go. This helps you find the right balance for your dish.</p>
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<h3>How can the choice of cheese impact the dish’s flavor?</h3>
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<p>Cheese plays a big role in flavor. Sharp cheddar gives a bold taste. If you want something creamier, use Monterey Jack or Gruyère. Mixing different cheeses can create depth. Consider adding a bit of cream cheese for added richness. The cheese melts into the casserole, making each bite creamy and delicious.</p>
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<h3>Are there creamy sauces that can elevate your casserole experience?</h3>
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<p>Creamy sauces can take your casserole to the next level. You can use heavy cream or a white sauce for a rich texture. A mix of sour cream and mayonnaise also adds tanginess. If you want a lighter option, try Greek yogurt. These sauces blend with the ham and potatoes, creating a velvety base. For the full recipe, check the details to create your own masterpiece.</p>
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A ham and potato casserole recipe needs simple, hearty ingredients. You start with 4 cups of diced potatoes. Russet or Yukon Gold work best. They give the dish a great texture. Next, you need 2 cups of cooked ham, cut into cubes. This adds rich flavor to your casserole.

Ham and Potato Casserole

Craving a dish that combines warmth and flavor? This Ham and Potato Casserole is your answer! With simple ingredients like diced potatoes, cooked ham, and creamy cheese sauce, this recipe is perfect for cozy meals. Discover tips for variation, serving suggestions, and storage ideas to make each bite a hit. Ready to create your own delicious casserole? Click through to explore the full recipe and get cooking today!

Ingredients
  

4 cups diced potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)

2 cups cooked ham, cubed

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup milk

1 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup frozen peas (optional)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    In a large pot, boil diced potatoes in salted water for about 10 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.

      In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ham, shredded cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, paprika, and the drained potatoes. Mix well.

        In another bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the potato and ham mixture and combine until evenly coated.

          If using frozen peas, fold them gently into the mixture to distribute.

            Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

              In a separate small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole for a crispy topping.

                Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

                  Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

                    Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

                      Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 60 mins | Servings: 8

                        - Presentation Tips: Serve the casserole hot from the oven, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.

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