Cheesy Ham and Potato Bake

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Ham and Potato Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Peel and slice your potatoes into thin rounds. Try to make the slices even in thickness to ensure they cook evenly. You can use a mandoline slicer to make this step easier and more precise.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

In the prepared baking dish, start by layering the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Season the potatoes with a little salt and pepper.

Next, sprinkle the diced ham and chopped onion over the potatoes. You can also add a layer of frozen peas or chopped green onions at this stage if you’re using them for added flavor and texture.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream and heavy cream. Add the minced garlic, a pinch of paprika (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until smooth.

Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the layered potatoes, ham, and onions. Use a spoon or spatula to gently spread it out and ensure everything is covered with the sauce.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Top the casserole with the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring that it covers the entire surface. For an extra cheesy, golden top, you can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This allows the potatoes to cook through and the flavors to meld. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cheesy ham and potato bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set up and make it easier to cut into portions. Serve it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Ham and Potato Bake

• Use Thin Potato Slices: The key to making sure the potatoes cook evenly is to slice them thinly. The thinner the slices, the quicker and more evenly they’ll cook.
• Pre-cooked Ham: This dish is a great way to use up leftover ham, but you can also use pre-cooked ham from the deli section of your grocery store. If you don’t have ham, cooked chicken or turkey also works great in this recipe.
• Add a Crunchy Topping: For an added texture contrast, you can top the casserole with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers during the last 10 minutes of baking for a crunchy finish.
• Add More Veggies: If you like more vegetables in your casserole, try adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the layers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make it Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake it. Simply cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and bake when needed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s been chilled.
• Use a Cheese Blend: While cheddar is the classic choice, you can use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even gouda for a more complex flavor.

Why You Should Make Cheesy Ham and Potato Bake

Cheesy Ham and Potato Bake is a delicious, hearty dish that brings together all the comfort and flavor you could want in a single casserole. The creamy, cheesy sauce is the perfect complement to the tender potatoes and savory ham, and the dish is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftover ham or just craving something comforting, this dish is sure to hit the spot. With customizable options, easy prep, and a rich, satisfying flavor, Cheesy Ham and Potato Bake is sure to become a favorite in your home. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table, filling them up with warmth and flavor!

So the next time you’re in the mood for comfort food, give this cheesy, creamy, and delicious casserole a try—you won’t regret it!