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Country-Style Ham & Potato Bake with Smooth Cheese Blend joins soft potatoes and flavorful ham chunks in a thick, creamy cheese mixture. This homey meal turns basic items into a filling dinner that's great for using up ham leftovers or when you need to feed several hungry folks.
I whipped this casserole up for the first time after we had Easter dinner, trying to figure out what to do with all our extra ham. These days my kids ask for it all the time, and I actually buy more ham than needed just so we'll have enough to make this dish.
Key Ingredients
- Yukon Gold potatoes: Their creamy feel and sturdy nature makes them the top choice
- Premium ham: Leftover special occasion ham delivers the tastiest results
- Sharp cheddar: Brings a nice bite and gives you that stretchy cheese effect
- Heavy cream: Makes the sauce extra smooth and rich
- Fresh thyme: Cuts through the heaviness with fresh flavor
- Garlic: Gives the cheese sauce more complexity
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Step 1: Get Your Potatoes Ready
- Cut potatoes into even thin slices (roughly 1/8 inch) with a mandoline or good knife. Quickly boil in salty water until barely tender but still a bit firm. This helps them cook evenly in your bake.
- Step 2: Whip Up Your Sauce
- Heat butter and cook garlic until it smells good. Stir in flour to create a base, then slowly pour in warm milk and cream. Keep stirring until it gets thick. Mix in cheese bit by bit, stirring till fully melted.
- Step 3: Build Your Layers
- Begin with a small amount of sauce, then stack alternating rows of potatoes, ham, and your cheese mix. Make sure each level has enough salt, pepper, and fresh thyme.
- Step 4: Finish The Top
- Pour the last of your sauce over everything and scatter a big handful of cheese on top. This layer will turn golden and bubbly as it cooks.
- Step 5: Bake Until Done
- Cover with foil and cook at 375°F for 30 minutes. Take the foil off and go another 15-20 minutes until the top looks golden and the edges are bubbling.
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When I was little, my grandma always told us a good baked dish needs to "rest a bit." She wasn't wrong - all the flavors come together beautifully during that waiting time.
Getting Your Layers Just Right
Look at each layer like its own small meal. You want every bite to have just the right mix of soft potatoes, tasty ham, and rich cheese sauce.
Prepare It Ahead
Put the whole dish together a day early, wrap it up tight, and stick it in the fridge. Just let it warm up on the counter before you pop it in the oven.
What To Serve With It
A fresh green salad with tangy dressing or some steamed broccoli works great against the richness of this bake.
Ways To Switch It Up
I'll often throw in some cooked mushrooms or sweet browned onions between the layers to add more flavor depth.
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After making this dish countless times over the years, I've found it sits perfectly between everyday comfort food and special meal territory. Whether it's just a regular family dinner or a fancy holiday breakfast, it always brings happy faces around the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
- Absolutely, put it together a day before and keep it in the fridge. Let it sit out 30 minutes before cooking.
- → Is it okay to swap out the cheese?
- Yes, try cheddar, gouda, gruyere, or even pepper jack for a twist.
- → Can I freeze this for later?
- Sure, freeze before or after baking, and it’ll last up to 3 months.
- → What potatoes work best for this?
- Russets or Yukon Golds work like a charm here.
- → What if I don't have ham?
- You can swap in sausage or crispy bacon instead.