Indulge in the comfort of home-cooked meals with this Cheesy Ham and Potato Bake, a delightful dish that brings together tender potatoes, savory ham, and a blend of aromatic vegetables topped with melty cheese. This hearty casserole is not only easy to prepare but also makes for a fantastic family dinner or a great dish to serve at gatherings. With a combination of textures—from crispy edges to creamy interiors—and the rich flavors of cheese and ham, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table. Plus, it’s versatile; you can easily swap ingredients to cater to your preferences or what you have on hand. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• Potatoes: 600 g (21 oz), peeled and thinly sliced
• Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Pepper: ½ bell pepper, diced
• Cherry tomatoes: 6, halved
• Ham: 150 g (5 oz), diced
• Egg: 1
• Cheese: 150 g (5 oz), grated (preferably a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
• Black pepper: to taste
• Salt: to taste
• Olive oil: for greasing and drizzling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes using a sharp knife or mandoline for even slices. Finely chop the onion and dice the bell pepper. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
3. Dice the Ham: Cut the ham into small cubes for even distribution throughout the dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, chopped onion, diced bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced ham. Add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to help absorb moisture and bind the ingredients together.
2. Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring even seasoning. Toss everything together until the ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Create the Egg Mixture

1. Beat the Egg: In a separate bowl, crack the egg and beat it lightly. This will help bind the ingredients together during baking.
2. Combine with Vegetables: Add the beaten egg to the potato and vegetable mixture, stirring until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

1. Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Mixture: Pour the potato and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. Press down gently to create an even layer.
3. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake in the Oven: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
2. Check for Doneness: To check if the potatoes are cooked through, insert a knife into the center; it should glide through easily.

Step 6: Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes before slicing. This will help the layers hold together better.
2. Plate and Enjoy: Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Tips

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Waxy potatoes, like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, work best for this dish as they hold their shape well when baked.
2. Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ham for cooked bacon or sausage, and add in your favorite vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
3. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavor combinations. Feta or goat cheese can add a tangy touch, while gouda or pepper jack can add richness and spice.

Storage

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
2. Freezing: This dish can be frozen before baking. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 400mg

This dish provides a comforting meal rich in carbohydrates, protein, and essential nutrients from the vegetables.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?

• Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as it uses cornstarch instead of flour. However, always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

3. What type of cheese works best?

• A blend of cheddar and mozzarella is recommended for a good balance of flavor and meltiness, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses based on your preference.

4. Can I use other vegetables?

• Absolutely! You can add vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or broccoli. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even cooking.

5. How do I know when the bake is done?

• The bake is done when the cheese is golden brown, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork or knife.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Ham and Potato Bake is a comforting, versatile dish that can easily be tailored to fit your taste preferences and dietary needs. With its delicious blend of flavors and textures, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Whether served as a main dish or alongside a fresh salad, this recipe will leave you and your loved ones satisfied and wanting more. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this delightful dish that is sure to warm your heart and home!