Ham and Potato Casserole

Creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory flavor, Ham and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s perfect for using up leftover ham and makes a hearty family dinner, holiday side dish, or cozy weekend meal. Tender potatoes are layered with smoky ham and wrapped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, then baked until bubbly and golden.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Great way to use leftover ham
Simple pantry ingredients
Creamy, cheesy comfort food
Feeds a crowd
Perfect for meal prep

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

4 cups diced cooked ham
5–6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (about 2 lbs / 900 g)
1 small onion, finely diced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
½ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat the Oven

Preheat to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2️⃣ Prepare the Potatoes

Peel (optional) and slice potatoes thinly — about ⅛-inch thick for even cooking.

Tip: A mandoline slicer helps create uniform slices.

3️⃣ Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat:

Melt butter.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to remove raw taste.
Slowly whisk in milk.
Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
Stir in 1 cup shredded cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add sour cream if using and stir until smooth.

Remove from heat.

4️⃣ Assemble the Casserole

Layer in baking dish:

Half of the sliced potatoes
Half of the diced ham
Half of the sauce

Repeat layers.

Top with remaining ½ cup cheese and breadcrumbs (if using).

5️⃣ Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Remove foil and bake another 20–25 minutes until potatoes are tender and top is golden and bubbly.

Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

✔ Slice potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
✔ Don’t skip resting time — it helps the casserole set.
✔ If browning too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
✔ For crispier topping, broil 2–3 minutes at the end.

Variations

🥦 Add Veggies

Mix in broccoli, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition.

🧀 Extra Cheesy

Add mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a gooey blend.

🌶 Spicy Kick

Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.

🥔 Shortcut Version

Use frozen diced hash browns instead of fresh potatoes.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate up to 4 days in airtight container.
Reheat in oven at 175°C (350°F) for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions.
Freeze up to 2 months (best without breadcrumb topping).

Serving Ideas

Pairs beautifully with:

Green salad
Roasted vegetables
Steamed green beans
Fresh dinner rolls

Final Thoughts

Ham and Potato Casserole is the definition of comfort food — creamy, savory, filling, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re using up holiday leftovers or making it from scratch, this classic dish delivers warm, home-style flavor in every bite.