Country Kitchen Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe
INGREDIENTS:
3 cups diced cooked ham
4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika, plus extra for sprinkling
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat your oven to 350°F and butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
. Spread half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the dish, followed by half of the ham and half of the onions.
. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour. Stir it around for a minute or so—you’re making a roux, my darlings—and then gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
. Add the mustard powder and black pepper to the sauce, stirring until it thickens up nicely and can coat the back of a spoon. Turn off the heat and stir in the cheese until melted and smooth.
. Pour half of this creamy sauce over the first layer of potatoes, ham, and onions. Repeat the layers one more time.
. Sprinkle the top with additional paprika and slide the casserole into the oven.
. Bake uncovered for around 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
. Let it cool slightly before serving and garnish with the fresh parsley.
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer Potatoes, Ham, and Onions: Spread half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish, followed by half of the diced ham and half of the chopped onions.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute to make a roux. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add mustard powder and black pepper, stirring until the sauce thickens and can coat the back of a spoon. Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
- Layer with Sauce: Pour half of the creamy cheese sauce over the first layer of potatoes, ham, and onions. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, onions, and cheese sauce.
- Bake: Sprinkle the top of the casserole with additional paprika for color. Bake uncovered for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
This Country Kitchen Ham and Potato Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Enjoy the creamy layers of potatoes, ham, and cheese with a hint of mustard and black pepper for added flavor.