Description

Embrace the warmth and satisfaction of home-cooked goodness with our delightful Ham and Potato Casserole. This hearty dish combines layers of tender russet potatoes, flavorful ham, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that will leave your taste buds singing. Baked to golden perfection and topped with a melty mozzarella and cheddar blend, this casserole is sure to become a cherished favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your own Ham and Potato Casserole masterpiece:

8–10 cups russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
2 cups cubed ham
10 ounces cream of chicken soup
12 ounces evaporated milk
8 ounces cream cheese
¾ ounce ranch mix (one full packet)
1 cup shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese (½ cup each)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bring this comforting casserole to life:

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Set it aside for later use.
Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the russet potatoes and slice them into ¼-inch thick pieces. Set them aside while you prepare the sauce.
Make the Cheesy Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, cream cheese, and ranch mix. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and well combined, creating a rich and flavorful base for your casserole.
Layer the Casserole: Ladle a portion of the sauce onto the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Layer sliced potatoes and cubed ham on top of the sauce, then pour ⅓ of the remaining sauce over the layers. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of sauce on top.
Add the Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top layer of sauce, creating a deliciously melty and golden crust.
Bake to Perfection: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake on the middle rack of the oven for 1½ hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the potatoes to become tender.
Broil for Crispy Cheese: Uncover the dish and place it under the broiler for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for at least 15-30 minutes, lightly covered with foil, before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to fully develop and makes for easier slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Calories: 400 per serving
Servings: 8 servings

Notes

Make the most of your Ham and Potato Casserole with these helpful serving and storage tips:

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the casserole hot and fresh from the oven to enjoy its comforting flavors at their best.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
- Pair with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to round out the meal.
Storage Guidelines:
- Allow any leftover casserole to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftover portions to an airtight container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate the casserole within 2 hours of cooking to maintain its freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
- Stored properly in the refrigerator, leftover casserole can last for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat refrigerated casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave until warmed to your liking.
Freezing Option:
- Ham and Potato Casserole can be frozen for future meals.
- Portion the cooled casserole into individual servings and wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating according to the instructions above.
Variation Ideas:
- Customize your casserole by adding extra ingredients such as cooked bacon, diced onions, or sliced mushrooms for additional flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different types of cheese or seasoning blends to create unique variations of the classic recipe.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Ham and Potato Casserole stays fresh and delicious, whether you’re enjoying it straight from the oven or reheating leftovers for a quick and satisfying meal.