Ham and Potato Casserole

Ham and Potato Casserole is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The combination of tender potatoes, savory ham, and melty Cheddar cheese, all topped with a crispy herb stuffing mix, makes this casserole a crowd-pleaser. Follow this step-by-step guide to make a delicious and satisfying Ham and Potato Casserole.

 Ingredients for Ham and Potato Casserole

• 2 ½ pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced: The base of the casserole, providing heartiness and comfort.
• 1 pound ham, diced: Adds savory, salty flavor and protein to the dish.
• 1 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to the casserole.
• ½ cup butter, unsalted and melted: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
• 1 can cream of onion soup: Provides a savory, creamy base with a hint of onion flavor.
• 1 packet dry onion soup mix: Enhances the onion flavor and adds seasoning.
• 2 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded: Adds a melty, cheesy layer to the casserole.
• 2 cups herb-flavored stuffing mix: Adds a crispy, flavorful topping to the casserole.

 Instructions: How to Make Ham and Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Peel and Dice the Potatoes:
   • Peel and dice the 2 ½ pounds of russet potatoes into bite-sized cubes.
3. Boil the Potatoes:
   • Place the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender but not falling apart. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

1. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of sour cream, ½ cup of melted butter, 1 can of cream of onion soup, and 1 packet of dry onion soup mix. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the Potatoes, Ham, and Cheese:
   • Gently fold the cooked potatoes and 1 pound of diced ham into the sour cream mixture. Add 2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese and mix until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Transfer to Baking Dish:
   • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Transfer the potato and ham mixture into the baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
2. Add the Stuffing Topping:
   • Sprinkle 2 cups of herb-flavored stuffing mix evenly over the top of the casserole. Press the stuffing down gently so it adheres to the potato mixture.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake:
   • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the stuffing topping is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
2. Cool and Serve:
   • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

 Cook’s Notes & Tips

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a Mexican blend, for added flavor.
• Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like broccoli, peas, or corn to the casserole for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make-Ahead Option: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

 Variations of Ham and Potato Casserole

Here are some ways to customize your Ham and Potato Casserole:

• Bacon and Ham Casserole: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the potato mixture for extra smokiness and flavor.
• Creamy Mushroom Casserole: Replace the cream of onion soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Ham and Potato Casserole: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use leftover ham in this casserole?

Yes, leftover ham works perfectly in this casserole and is a great way to use up leftovers from holiday meals.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

4. What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or dinner rolls.

5. Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes instead of russet potatoes, but the texture may be slightly different.

A Comforting and Delicious Meal

Ham and Potato Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a holiday meal, this casserole is sure to please. With its creamy, cheesy filling and crispy topping, it’s a dish that’s easy to make and always delivers delicious results.

So gather your ingredients and enjoy this comforting Ham and Potato Casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite!