Pin This A rich, comforting casserole featuring layers of tender potatoes, savory ham, and a velvety cheese sauce. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck favorite.
This creamy casserole has become a staple in our family, bringing everyone together with its comforting flavors and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1.2 kg (2.5 lbs) russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced, 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- Meats: 350 g (12 oz) cooked ham, diced
- Dairy: 60 g (4 tbsp) unsalted butter, 480 ml (2 cups) whole milk, 240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream, 170 g (1 ½ cups) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 60 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- Pantry: 30 g (¼ cup) all purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp dried thyme, Pinch of ground nutmeg
- Optional Topping: 60 g (½ cup) panko breadcrumbs, 20 g (2 tbsp) melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish.
- Sauté Onions:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add onions and sauté until translucent, about 3 4 minutes.
- Cook Flour:
- Stir in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
- Make Sauce:
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Continue whisking until smooth and slightly thickened, 4 5 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, Parmesan, salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and nutmeg. Mix until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth. Remove from heat.
- Layer Casserole:
- Arrange half the potato slices in the prepared baking dish. Top evenly with half the ham. Pour half the cheese sauce over the layers.
- Repeat Layers:
- Repeat with remaining potatoes, ham, and cheese sauce.
- Add Topping:
- For topping (optional) Mix panko with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake:
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 30 minutes, until golden and bubbly, and potatoes are tender.
- Rest:
- Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Pin This This recipe always brings the family together around the table, creating warm and happy memories with every bite.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce. Substitute Gruyère for a more pronounced cheese flavor. Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of Chardonnay.
Required Tools
Large saucepan, 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish, Whisk, Chefs knife and cutting board, Foil
Nutritional Information
Calories: 550, Total Fat: 29 g, Carbohydrates: 44 g, Protein: 27 g (per serving)
Pin This This casserole is best enjoyed fresh but also makes excellent leftovers for next day meals.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Yes, Gruyère cheese is an excellent alternative for a richer, nutty flavor. It melts smoothly and complements the potatoes well.
- → What type of potatoes works best?
Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, which helps absorb the creamy sauce and bake nicely.
- → Is it necessary to use both milk and cream?
Combining milk and heavy cream strikes a balance between richness and smoothness, creating the velvety texture of the sauce.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the layers ahead of time and refrigerate before baking. Just add extra baking time if baking from cold.
- → How can I add more flavor to the dish?
Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or substituting different herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the savory depth of the casserole.