3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes, until it’s lightly golden.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard if using. The sauce should be creamy and slightly thick.
4. Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the parboiled potatoes, diced ham, chopped onion, and garlic. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. Layer the Bake
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula, then sprinkle a little extra cheese on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
6. Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and a hint of freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Cheesy Ham and Potato Bake
- Cheese variety: Mixing cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella gives a richer flavor.
- Potato choice: Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold hold their shape better, while russets create a creamier texture.
- Make ahead: You can assemble the bake a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as instructed the next day.
- Extra flavor: Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne to the cheese sauce for a subtle kick.
This Cheesy Ham and Potato Bake is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend treat, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
If you want, I can also create a shortcut version that uses minimal prep and still tastes amazing, perfect for busy evenings. Do you want me to do that?
No Responses Yet