Ah, 🥘 Holiday Ham and Potato Casserole — a classic festive comfort dish! Creamy, cheesy, and hearty, it’s perfect for holiday dinners or family gatherings. Here’s a clear, foolproof version:

🥔 Holiday Ham & Potato Casserole

🛒 Ingredients

4 cups diced cooked ham
6 cups peeled and cubed potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar works best)
1 cup sour cream
½ cup milk or cream
2 tbsp butter, melted
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: ½ cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for topping

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat & Prep

Oven: 350°F (175°C)
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2️⃣ Cook Potatoes

Boil cubed potatoes until just tender (~8–10 min).
Drain well.

3️⃣ Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl: combine potatoes, ham, onion, 1½ cups cheese, sour cream, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Stir gently until evenly mixed.

4️⃣ Assemble Casserole

Pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheese on top.
Optional: add crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.

5️⃣ Bake

Bake 25–30 minutes, until heated through and top is golden and bubbly.

6️⃣ Serve

Let sit 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped parsley for color.

✨ Tips for Success

Use day-old ham — flavor is stronger.
Partially cook potatoes — ensures they finish baking in the creamy sauce.
Make ahead — assemble the night before, cover, and bake next day.
Cheese variation — Gruyère or smoked cheddar adds extra holiday flavor.

If you like, I can also give a “luxury holiday version” with caramelized onions, gruyère, and a crunchy panko topping that tastes like a restaurant side dish.