Ham And Potato Casserole

Name: Ham And Potato Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 4 cups diced potatoes; 2 cups cooked ham (cubed); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 onion (chopped); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Indulge in the warm, hearty goodness of ham and potato casserole, a dish that combines tender potatoes and savory ham in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, bringing comfort to the table with its delightful flavors and textures. Your family will love this easy-to-make casserole that is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

– 4 cups diced potatoes
– 2 cups cooked ham, cubed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 6. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 18g of protein, 15g of fat, 36g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber. This is based on standard ingredients and may vary depending on specific brands used.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
3. In a large bowl, combine the diced potatoes, cubed ham, and chopped onion.
4. In another bowl, mix sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the sour cream mixture over the potato and ham mixture.
6. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish.
8. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the potatoes with sweet potatoes for a healthier twist. Additionally, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version, and add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.

Serving and Pairings

This ham and potato casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. It also goes well with crusty bread or dinner rolls for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Don’t skip preheating the oven; it ensures even cooking.
Be careful not to overcook the potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy.
Don’t forget to cover the dish with foil initially to prevent over-browning.
Ensure your ham is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
Adjust seasoning to taste; every ham varies in saltiness.
Use a larger dish if doubling the recipe to prevent overflow.
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Helpful Tips

Experiment with different cheese varieties for unique flavors.
Incorporate leftover vegetables to reduce waste.
Use a mandoline for evenly sliced potatoes.
Add a sprinkle of paprika on top for extra color.
For a creamy texture, blend the sauce before mixing it with the potatoes.

FAQs

Can I use raw potatoes in this casserole?

Using raw potatoes is not recommended, as they need to be cooked through. Pre-cooked or parboiled potatoes ensure they are tender in the final dish.

How can I make this casserole gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any flour. Just ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.

What types of ham work best for this recipe?

Cooked ham, such as honey-baked or smoked varieties, works best for flavor. Avoid using raw or uncooked ham.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the ham with mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of milk for a vegetarian option.

Conclusion

Ham and potato casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to please families and guests alike. Easy to prepare and versatile, this casserole will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every bite!