Enjoy this easy ham and potato casserole recipe that’s hearty, simple, and perfect for weeknight dinners. Delicious, creamy, and ready in no time.
Easy Ham and Potato Casserole
If you’re looking for a comforting and straightforward meal, our easy ham and potato casserole has you covered. This recipe combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy cheese in a single dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. It’s quick to prepare and requires only a handful of ingredients—making cleanup just as easy as the cooking.
This casserole gets its richness from a creamy sauce made with milk and sour cream, with a hint of thyme for a touch of herbaceous warmth. The layers of cheese melt perfectly, creating a satisfying and delicious main course everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love It
- Simple, few ingredients—easy for beginners and busy cooks.
- One-pot meal that saves time on cleanup.
- Hearty, comforting, and perfect for any season.
- Flexible for substitutions and additions.
Ingredients
- 4 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced (leftover or deli ham is fine)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (sweet or yellow)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh preferred)
- 1 cup milk (any kind, dairy or unsweetened plant-based)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (can substitute Greek yogurt)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour evenly over the onion mixture. Stir constantly for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in sour cream, thyme, salt, and pepper until combined.
- In the prepared casserole dish, add half of the diced potatoes, then half of the ham, and sprinkle half of the cheese on top.
- Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, ham, and cheese. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the entire casserole.
- Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
For more comforting meals, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners collection. For additional inspiration and cooking tips, visit Food Network.
Expert Tips
Use Yukon Gold potatoes for creamier texture or Russets for fluffier bites. Parboil potatoes for faster cook times if preferred. If the casserole seems too thick, add a splash of milk before baking. For a crispy top, broil for the last 2–3 minutes watching carefully to avoid burning.
Storage
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Variations
- Vegan: Use plant-based milk and sour cream alternatives, replace cheese with vegan cheese, and swap ham for smoked tofu or tempeh.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free milk, vegan sour cream, and cheese substitutes.
- Low-Sugar: This recipe is naturally low in sugar. Just ensure your milk alternatives do not include added sugars.
FAQ
- Can I make this easy ham and potato casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it covered. Bake when ready, adding extra time if baking from cold.
- What potatoes work best in this casserole?
- Yukon Golds hold shape well and give a creamy texture. Russets also work if you prefer a fluffier bite.
- Can I use leftover ham?
- Absolutely! Leftover cooked ham works perfectly, making this recipe great for quick dinners after holidays.
- Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
- Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw thoroughly before cooking to ensure even heating.
- Can I add vegetables?
- Sure! Diced bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms are great additions. Add them during the sauté step or layer them in.
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