1. Home
  2. Recipes
  3. Creamy Ham Potato Bake

Delicious Ham Potato Casserole

Featured in Tasty Ways with Grains and Rice.

Satisfying casserole with creamy cheese, savory ham, and soft potatoes. Ready in about 75 minutes and perfect for batch cooking or leftover ham.
Pin it Share it Send it Print it Jump To Recipe
Emily Watson
Updated on Mon, 10 Mar 2025 03:25:35 GMT
Delicious Ham Potato Casserole Pin it
Delicious Ham Potato Casserole | thefamilycooks.com

Classic Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish that transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious meal. This hearty casserole features layers of tender potatoes and diced ham enveloped in a rich, homemade cheese sauce - perfect for family dinners or using up leftover holiday ham.

This recipe evolved from a post-holiday tradition of repurposing ham into something new and exciting. The combination proved so delicious that it's now requested throughout the year.

Key Ingredients

  • Yukon Gold potatoes: Superior texture and rich, buttery flavor
  • Cooked ham: Use leftover spiral-cut or baked ham
  • Sharp cheddar cheese: Provides optimal melting and flavor
  • Heavy cream: Creates a luxurious sauce base
  • Fresh thyme: Adds aromatic depth
  • Fresh garlic: Essential savory foundation

Preparation Method

Step 1: Potato Preparation
Slice potatoes to 1/8 inch thickness. Briefly cook in salted water until barely tender. Drain well.
Step 2: Sauce Base
Cook minced garlic in melted butter until fragrant. Add flour to create roux. Gradually incorporate warmed milk and cream, stirring constantly until thickened.
Step 3: Assembly
Begin with sauce, then create alternating layers of potatoes and ham. Season each layer carefully.
Step 4: Final Layer
Pour remaining sauce over top. Sprinkle with extra cheese for a golden crust.
Step 5: Baking
Bake covered at 375°F for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 15-20 minutes until bubbling.
Tasty Ham and Potato Casserole Pin it
Tasty Ham and Potato Casserole | thefamilycooks.com

Perfect Layering Technique

The key to exceptional texture lies in careful layering. Each component should be evenly distributed to ensure consistent flavor throughout.

Advance Preparation

This casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead. Store covered in refrigerator and bring to room temperature before baking.

Suggested Accompaniments

Balance the richness with fresh green vegetables or a light mixed salad dressed with citrus vinaigrette.

Recipe Variations

Enhance the base recipe with additions like sautéed onions, wild mushrooms, or different cheese combinations.

Tasty Ham and Potato Casserole Pin it
Tasty Ham and Potato Casserole | thefamilycooks.com

This timeless casserole strikes the perfect balance between everyday comfort and special occasion elegance. The combination of tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy cheese sauce creates an irresistible dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prep this dish in advance?
Sure, put it together the day before and keep it in the fridge. Let it warm up at room temperature for half an hour before baking.
→ Can I swap out the cheese?
Absolutely! Try gouda, gruyere, pepper jack, or classic cheddar instead.
→ Will this dish freeze well?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after cooking. It stays good in the freezer for up to 3 months.
→ What kind of potatoes should I use?
Russets or Yukon Golds are reliable choices for the best texture.
→ What can I use if I don’t have ham?
Cooked bacon bits or pieces of sausage work great as substitutes.

Creamy Ham Potato Bake

A hearty dish loaded with ham, tender potatoes, and a cheesy sauce. Great for prepping ahead and using up leftovers.

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
45 Minutes
Total Time
75 Minutes

Category: Grains & Rice

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 10 Servings

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Main ingredients

01 2 pounds (915g) of Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
02 2 cups (300g) diced ham
03 1½ cups (150g) shredded sharp white cheddar cheese, split into two portions
04 3 tablespoons (43g) unsalted butter
05 3/4 cup (100g) diced yellow onion
06 3 cloves of garlic, finely minced
07 3 tablespoons (24g) all-purpose flour
08 2 cups (480ml) whole milk

→ Seasonings

09 3/4 teaspoon salt
10 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
11 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard powder
12 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley)

→ Optional garnishes

14 Fresh chopped parsley
15 Sliced green onions
16 Chopped chives
17 Hot sauce

Instructions

Step 01

Cut the peeled potatoes into pieces about 3/4 inch big (roughly 6 cups). Lightly boil them for about 5-6 minutes so they're starting to soften but not completely cooked. Drain all the water off.

Step 02

Lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with oil or non-stick spray. Mix the warm, drained potatoes with the ham and 1 cup of cheese in the dish. Toss them together gently and set aside.

Step 03

In a big frying pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the garlic and onions, cooking for 3 minutes or until the onions soften.

Step 04

Mix in the flour and seasonings, blending until smooth. Lower the heat and pour the milk in slowly, stirring as you go. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until it's thick like gravy. Taste it and tweak the seasoning if needed.

Step 05

Pour the warm sauce over the potato mixture in the dish, stirring gently to coat everything evenly. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil, sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 5-10 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

Step 06

Top with your favorite garnishes, like fresh herbs or a splash of hot sauce, if you'd like. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  1. This dish can be put together a day ahead and baked later.
  2. Swap the ham for sausage or bits of cooked bacon for a twist.
  3. Try a variety of cheeses like pepper jack, gouda, or gruyere for other flavor profiles.
  4. Leftovers will stay good in the fridge for up to a week.

Tools You'll Need

  • A 9x13-inch or 3-4 quart oven-safe baking dish
  • A large frying pan or skillet
  • A potato peeler
  • A cheese grater
  • A medium pot for boiling the potatoes

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Has dairy (milk, cheese, butter)
  • Includes gluten (flour)