Introduction
This creamy and hearty potato ham casserole is a delightful dish perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Packed with layers of tender Yukon Gold potatoes, savory ham, and a rich cheese sauce, it’s a comforting meal that is sure to please. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a glorious golden-brown top, making it both delicious and visually appealing.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (½ stick)
½ onion, finely chopped
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
2½ cups whole milk
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
3½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced thin
3 cups diced ham
1½ cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for topping)
Prep Time
Approximately 20 minutes is needed to prepare the ingredients and layer them into the baking dish.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Total Time: 90 minutes
Yield: Serves 8-10
This recipe not only comes together quickly but is also an excellent option for feeding a crowd. The combination of flavors and textures will have everyone going back for seconds!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Step 3: Cook the Onion
Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened.
Step 4: Whisk in Flour
Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute.
Step 5: Add Milk and Broth
Gradually pour in the whole milk and chicken broth while whisking continuously.
Step 6: Simmer the Mixture
Allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens slightly.
Step 7: Season the Sauce
Stir in the kosher salt, ground black pepper, and Dijon mustard.
Step 8: Prepare the Baking Dish
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the diced ham.
Step 9: Add the First Layer of Sauce
Pour half of the prepared sauce over the layers.
Step 10: Repeat the Layers
Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, ham, and sauce.
Step 11: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Step 12: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Step 13: Uncover and Continue Baking
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Step 14: Garnish and Serve
Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Potato Slicing
Ensure the potatoes are sliced thinly for even cooking.
Note 2: Cheese Variation
Feel free to use different types of cheese if desired.
Note 3: Cooking Time
Adjust cooking time if using a different baking dish size or oven type.
Note 4: Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cook techniques
Melt butter
Use a saucepan over medium heat to melt unsalted butter. This forms the base for your sauce.
Softening onions
Add finely chopped onions to the melted butter and cook until they become translucent and soft, enhancing the flavor of your dish.
Whisking in flour
After the onions are softened, whisk all-purpose flour into the mixture, cooking it for about a minute to allow the flour to absorb the flavors and eliminate any raw taste.
Making a roux
Continue to whisk while gradually pouring in whole milk and low-sodium chicken broth. This creates a smooth sauce base, known as a roux, that will thicken during simmering.
Thickening the sauce
Allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens slightly. This step is crucial for achieving the desired consistency of your sauce.
Seasoning
Stir in kosher salt, ground black pepper, and Dijon mustard to flavor the sauce. This adds depth and complexity to the dish.
Layering ingredients
In a greased baking dish, layer sliced Yukon Gold potatoes, diced ham, and then sauce. This layering method ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.
Baking
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F for 40 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes to get a golden brown top.
Garnishing
Optionally, top with chopped fresh parsley before serving for added color and freshness.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar cheese with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the layers and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate them, then bake when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
You can substitute low-sodium chicken broth with vegetable broth or homemade stock for a vegetarian option.
How do I know when the potatoes are tender?
The potatoes are tender when a fork easily pierces through them after the baking time.
Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or carrots for additional nutrients and flavor.
Conclusion
This creamy ham and potato bake is a comforting dish that combines the richness of cheddar cheese with the savory flavors of ham and Dijon mustard. Perfect for family gatherings or as a hearty weeknight meal, it offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that are sure to please everyone at the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Variation
Substitute the diced ham with cooked spinach, broccoli, or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.
Cheesy Broccoli Bake
Incorporate steamed broccoli into the layers for added nutrition and flavor, complementing the cheese and ham beautifully.
Spicy Cheddar Twist
Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick that elevates the dish.
Loaded Baked Potato Style
Top off the dish with crumbled bacon and sour cream after baking for a loaded baked potato experience.
Herbed Potato Bake
Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce for enhanced aroma and taste that pairs well with the potatoes.
Breakfast Casserole
Replace ham with cooked breakfast sausage and add scrambled eggs for a breakfast casserole option that’s perfect for brunch.
