Baked Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole with Spinach and Ham

Looking for a hearty, delicious, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of day? This Baked Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole with Spinach and Ham is the answer. Made with tender mashed potatoes, savory ham, fragrant garlic, sautéed spinach, and melted cheese, this casserole is easy to prepare and irresistibly satisfying.

This dish brings together humble ingredients in a beautifully baked form that’s crispy on top and creamy inside. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, it’s a fantastic way to feed a hungry family, impress guests, or use up leftover ingredients in the fridge.

Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes

• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 eggs

• Salt, to taste

• Pepper, to taste

• 1 kg (≈2 lbs) potatoes, peeled and chopped

• Water, for boiling

• Salt (for water)

• 2 tablespoons cooking oil (for frying)

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 100–150 g ham, cubed

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1–1.5 cups spinach (fresh or thawed from frozen)

• 1–1.5 cups grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Peel and chop 1 kg of potatoes into even pieces. Place them in a pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Boil until tender—about 15–20 minutes. Drain and mash the potatoes until smooth.

Step 2: Cook the Filling
In a skillet, heat cooking oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 1–2 minutes until translucent.

Add cubed ham and cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to lightly brown. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Add spinach and cook for another 2–3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Casserole Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the sautéed vegetable and ham mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste.

In a small bowl, lightly beat 2 eggs, then stir them into the mashed potato mixture to help bind everything together.

Step 4: Add the Cheese
Fold in about 1 cup of grated cheese, reserving a bit to sprinkle on top. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Lightly grease a baking dish, then spread the mixture evenly inside. Top with the remaining cheese.

Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or an extra sprinkle of black pepper if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 300–350

• Protein: 14–17 g

• Carbohydrates: 25–30 g

• Fat: 15–18 g

• Fiber: 2–3 g

• Calcium: 20% DV

• Iron: 10% DV

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Casseroles have long been a staple in kitchens around the world, from the American Midwest to European home cooking. This recipe takes inspiration from traditional mashed potato bakes but adds flavor and texture with ham, spinach, and cheese. With the modern trend of combining nutrition and comfort food, it’s become a viral sensation among family cooks and meal preppers.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

• Comfort food classic made healthier with spinach

• Uses everyday ingredients you probably already have

• Perfect for meal prep and easy to reheat

• Great for all ages—even picky eaters love it

• Customizable with different cheeses, meats, or veggies

Health Benefits

• Potatoes offer fiber and potassium for heart health

• Spinach is rich in iron and antioxidants

• Eggs provide high-quality protein and healthy fats

• Cheese adds calcium and flavor

• Garlic and onions support immunity and digestion

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables

• Great alongside grilled chicken or baked fish

• Enjoy with crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream

• Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner

• Serve in ramekins for individual portions at gatherings

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not draining potatoes properly: Can result in watery mash

• Overcooking the ham or spinach: May lose flavor and texture

• Using too much cheese: Can overpower other ingredients

• Skipping seasoning: Taste the mash before baking

• Not letting it rest: Helps it firm up for better slicing

Pairing Recommendations

• Drink: Herbal tea, lemonade, or a light white wine

• Side dish: Roasted carrots, cucumber salad, or coleslaw

• Dip: Garlic aioli, sour cream, or plain Greek yogurt

• Dessert: Apple crisp, chocolate pudding, or baked pears

Cooking Tips

• Use starchy potatoes like Russets for a fluffier mash

• Add nutmeg or mustard powder for extra depth of flavor

• Swap ham for cooked bacon, sausage, or even lentils

• Use parchment paper to line your baking dish for easy cleanup

• Double the recipe and freeze in portions for future meals

Similar Recipes to Try

• Loaded Baked Mashed Potato Cups

• Ham and Cheese Breakfast Bake

• Cheesy Spinach Potato Pancakes

• Creamy Garlic Mashed Potato Casserole

• Sweet Potato and Kale Bake

Variations to Try

• Vegetarian: Omit the ham and add mushrooms or bell peppers

• Spicy: Mix in chili flakes, jalapeños, or pepper jack cheese

• Low-fat: Use low-fat cheese and milk instead of butter

• Kid-friendly: Add a layer of cheddar and skip the garlic

• One-pan meal: Top with sliced tomatoes and bake as a crustless pie

Ingredient Spotlight: Spinach

Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients including iron, magnesium, and vitamin K. It adds both color and health benefits to this casserole. Cooking spinach helps concentrate its flavor, and in this dish, it balances the richness of cheese and potatoes perfectly.

Conclusion

This Baked Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole with Spinach and Ham is the ultimate blend of comfort, nutrition, and flavor. Easy to make and even easier to love, it’s perfect for feeding the whole family or impressing guests at your next brunch or dinner party. With creamy mashed potatoes, savory filling, and a gooey cheese topping, this dish is bound to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.

3. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular ones?
Yes, they’ll add a sweet twist and extra nutrients.

4. What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or a mix of any melty cheese.

5. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, just skip the ham or replace it with mushrooms, tofu, or beans.

6. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and drain it well before adding to the pan.

7. Can I use milk or cream in the mash?
Sure! A little cream or milk can make the mash even richer.

8. How do I prevent the top from drying out?
Cover with foil for the first 15 minutes, then uncover to brown.

9. What herbs go well in this dish?
Try parsley, thyme, or chives for added freshness.

10. How long can I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.