Go Back
–+ servings
Merry

Easy Cheesy Ham and Potato Bake

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Potato and Ham Au Gratin! Layers of tender, golden potatoes are paired with smoky ham and smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, then baked to perfection. This rich and hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or a cozy meal on a chilly evening. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress with every bite.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Potatoes and Ham:
  • 1 lb russet potatoes thinly sliced (~1/8 inch thick, no need to peel)
  • 3 cups ham sliced or diced
For the Cheese Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 white onion diced
  • 4 –6 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cup half-and-half
  • 1 cup 2% milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 sprigs thyme optional
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tsp salt or to taste
Optional Garnishes:
  • Fresh parsley or chives finely chopped

Method
 

1. Preheat and Prepare:
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 12-inch oval or 9x13-inch rectangular casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
  1. Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly.
  2. Slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick, using a mandoline or sharp knife.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onions and minced garlic, stirring frequently for 1–2 minutes until softened.
  3. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux. Cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  4. Slowly whisk in the half-and-half, milk, chicken broth, thyme, and salt. Stir until smooth and bring to a simmer.
  5. Cook the mixture until it thickens slightly, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese until melted. Discard the thyme stems.
4. Layer the Casserole:
  1. Spread a thin layer of cheese sauce on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
  2. Add 1/3 of the potato slices in an even layer.
  3. Spoon 1/3 of the cheese sauce over the potatoes and layer with 1/2 of the ham.
  4. Repeat the process for a second layer (potatoes, cheese sauce, ham).
  5. For the final layer, arrange the remaining potatoes and top with the rest of the cheese sauce. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Bake:
  1. Place the casserole dish on the middle oven rack. Position a cookie sheet on a lower rack to catch any drips.
  2. Bake uncovered for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife.
  3. If the top begins to brown too much, cover loosely with aluminum foil.
6. Rest and Serve:
  1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes to allow the layers to set.
  2. Garnish with parsley or chives, slice, and serve.

Notes

  • Cheese Variations: Feel free to substitute Gruyère, Parmesan, or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a meat-free version.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!