Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main ingredients

01 - Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, 2 pounds (915g)
02 - Cubed ham, 2 cups (300g)
03 - Sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded, 1½ cups (150g), divided
04 - Unsalted butter, 3 tablespoons (43g)
05 - Yellow onion, chopped, 3/4 cup (100g)
06 - Garlic, 3 cloves, minced
07 - All-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons (24g)
08 - Whole milk, 2 cups (480ml)

→ Seasonings

09 - Salt, 3/4 teaspoon
10 - Fresh ground pepper, 1/2 teaspoon
11 - Smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon
12 - Ground mustard, 1/2 teaspoon
13 - Dried parsley, 1 teaspoon (or 2 teaspoons fresh)

→ Optional garnishes

14 - Fresh parsley, chopped
15 - Green onions
16 - Chives
17 - Hot sauce

# Instructions:

01 - Peel and cut potatoes into 3/4-inch pieces (you should have about 6 cups). Boil them for just 5-6 minutes until slightly softened but not fully tender. Drain well.
02 - In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, combine the warm potatoes, ham, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Gently toss together and set aside.
03 - Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until the onions soften, about 3 minutes.
04 - Add all seasonings and flour to the skillet, stirring until well combined. Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in milk. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens to a gravy consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
05 - Pour the warm sauce over the potato mixture and gently toss to coat. Bake covered at 375°F for 30 minutes, then uncover, top with remaining cheese, and bake 5-10 minutes more until bubbly and cheese is melted.
06 - Garnish with your choice of fresh herbs or hot sauce, if desired. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Perfect make-ahead dish - can be assembled up to 1 day in advance
02 - Can substitute ham with cooked sausage or crumbled bacon
03 - Works well with various cheeses like smoked gouda, gruyere, or pepper jack
04 - Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 1 week