Name: Easy Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole: Perfect Family Meal
Prep time: 1 h 5 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients: 2 ½ pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled, thinly sliced (¼-inch); 1 teaspoon salt (for par-boiling potatoes); 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking meat); 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10); 1 cup diced cooked beef (approx. 6-8 ounces, as a substitution for ham); 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; Salt to taste (for meat); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 2 ½ cups whole milk, warmed; 1 ½ cups low-sodium beef broth; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened, cubed; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for sauce); ½ cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (for sauce); ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (for sauce); 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for layering & topping); ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming embrace on a plate, a culinary masterpiece that promises to become an instant family favorite. Imagine a single dish that effortlessly combines the robust flavors of seasoned ground beef, the smoky allure of diced ham, and the comforting tenderness of sliced potatoes, all bound together by a luscious, creamy sauce and topped with a generous, bubbling layer of golden-brown cheese. It’s the kind of hearty, satisfying dish I grew up looking forward to on chilly evenings or weekend gatherings, a true testament to the power of simple ingredients creating extraordinary taste.

This magnificent casserole embodies the spirit of resourceful home cooking, transforming everyday ingredients into something truly special. While its exact origins might be rooted in countless family kitchens across generations, its appeal is undoubtedly universal: it’s incredibly satisfying, deeply flavorful, and wonderfully convenient. People adore this dish not just for its incredible taste – the perfect harmony of savory, smoky, and creamy – but also for its fulfilling texture and the sheer ease with which it can feed a hungry crowd. Trust me, once you experience the delightful layers of this Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole, you’ll understand why it’s a treasured recipe in so many homes.

Ingredients:

Oh, get ready to gather up some truly wonderful things for our Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole! This is where all the magic begins, where we lay the foundation for a comforting dish that everyone will adore. I always say, good ingredients make for an even better casserole!

For the Potatoes:
- 2 ½ pounds Russet potatoes (or Yukon Gold), peeled and thinly sliced to about ¼-inch thickness. I find Russets give a lovely fluffy texture, while Yukon Golds offer a creamier bite. Either will be perfect for our Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus a little extra for greasing the baking dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt, for seasoning the potatoes during par-boiling.
For the Flavorful Meat Layer:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef (I prefer 85/15 or 90/10 for a good balance of flavor without too much grease). This forms the hearty core of our Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole.
- 1 cup diced cooked ham (about 6-8 ounces). Pre-cooked, smoked ham works wonderfully here, adding a delightful savory depth.
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. This adds a beautiful smoky warmth that complements the beef and ham perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground is always best!
- Salt to taste (start with ½ teaspoon, adjust after tasting the mixture).
For the Rich & Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour. This is our trusty friend for creating a velvety roux.
- 2 ½ cups whole milk, warmed slightly (this helps prevent lumps!).
- 1 ½ cups beef broth (low sodium is good, so we can control the saltiness).
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes. Oh, this is the secret weapon for an extra luxurious texture!
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Essential for that classic Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole flavor.
- ½ cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese), for an added layer of nutty complexity.
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, but it really brightens the flavors without making the sauce taste like mustard).
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
For Layering & Topping:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a cheddar-Monterey Jack blend), for sprinkling between layers and a glorious top crust. This ensures every bite of our Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole is bursting with cheesy goodness.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional, but adds a lovely fresh touch).

Preparing the Potatoes

Alright, let’s get those potatoes ready for their starring role in our Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole! This step is crucial for ensuring they cook through beautifully in the oven and don’t end up raw or overly mushy. Trust me, a little preparation here goes a long way.

First things first, grab your potatoes. Give them a good scrub under cold running water to remove any dirt. Then, with a sturdy vegetable peeler, carefully peel away the skin from all the potatoes. I find it oddly satisfying, like preparing a blank canvas for deliciousness.
Once peeled, it’s time to slice them. You’ll want to get them to about ¼-inch thickness. I usually use a mandoline for this because it gives incredibly uniform slices, which means they’ll cook evenly. If you don’t have a mandoline, a sharp knife and a steady hand will work perfectly fine. Just try your best to keep the thickness consistent – we’re aiming for that perfect tender bite in our Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole.
Now, let’s par-cook these beauties. Place your sliced potatoes into a large pot. Cover them with cold water by about an inch, then add 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let them simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes. We’re not trying to cook them all the way through; we just want them to be slightly tender but still firm. They should still hold their shape beautifully. This step ensures that when the casserole bakes, the potatoes become wonderfully soft without turning into a watery mess.
Carefully drain the par-cooked potatoes in a colander. You’ll want to let them sit there for a few minutes to allow as much steam and excess water to escape as possible. This prevents a watery casserole later on, which is key for our perfect Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole. You can even gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel if you’re feeling extra thorough.
While they’re draining, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or butter. This will prevent our delicious casserole from sticking and make serving a breeze. Set aside your prepared potatoes and baking dish; they’re ready for assembly!

Building the Flavor Base

This is where we really start to infuse our Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole with incredible savory flavors. The combination of seasoned ground beef, smoky ham, and aromatic vegetables creates a foundation that’s truly irresistible. Take your time with these steps; the depth of flavor you build here will shine through in every single bite.

Grab a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a Dutch oven. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and place it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your lean ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks.
Cook the ground beef, stirring occasionally, until it’s beautifully browned all over and no pink remains. This browning step is absolutely crucial for developing deep, rich flavor through the Maillard reaction. Don’t rush it!
Once the beef is thoroughly browned, carefully drain off any excess grease. You don’t want your Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole to be greasy! I usually tilt the pan and use a spoon to scoop out the fat, or you can transfer the beef to a colander lined with a paper towel. Return the drained beef to the skillet.
Now, add your diced cooked ham to the skillet with the beef. Give it a good stir and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the ham to warm through and release some of its wonderful smoky aroma into the beef. This combination is a match made in heaven for our Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole.
Next, it’s time for our aromatics! Add the finely diced yellow onion to the skillet with the beef and ham. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until the onion has softened and turned translucent. It will smell absolutely fantastic!
Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and black pepper. Cook for just 1 minute more, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly. This short burst of heat helps to “bloom” the spices, releasing their full aromatic potential.
Taste the meat mixture and add salt as needed. Remember, we added salt to the potatoes, and the cheese sauce will have salt too, so start with about ½ teaspoon and adjust. You want this meat mixture to be well-seasoned and flavorful on its own. Remove the skillet from the heat and set this glorious flavor base aside. It’s a key component of our amazing Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole.

Crafting the Velvety Cheese Sauce

Ah, the heart and soul of our Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole: the rich, creamy, and utterly delicious cheese sauce! This sauce is what binds everything together, creating that irresistible gooey texture and delivering a burst of cheesy goodness in every bite. Don’t be intimidated; making a béchamel-based cheese sauce is simpler than you might think, and the results are incredibly rewarding.

In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn. Once the butter is completely melted and bubbling gently, it’s time for the flour.
Sprinkle in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Immediately whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes, creating a smooth paste, or roux. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and forms the thickening base for our sauce. We’re aiming for a pale, golden roux, not a dark one. It will smell a bit like pie crust – that’s a good sign!
Gradually pour in the warm whole milk, about ½ cup at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition to prevent lumps. It might seem like a lot of whisking, but trust me, a smooth sauce is worth the effort! As you add the milk, the roux will slowly incorporate it, and the mixture will start to thicken. Once all the milk is incorporated and the sauce is smooth, whisk in the beef broth in the same gradual manner.
Continue to cook the sauce over medium heat, whisking frequently, until it thickifies and coats the back of a spoon, usually about 5-7 minutes. It should be thick enough that when you run your finger across the spoon, it leaves a clear path. This is your beautiful béchamel sauce, the foundation of our cheesy delight.
Reduce the heat to low. Now for the star ingredients! Add the softened cream cheese cubes to the sauce. Whisk until the cream cheese is completely melted and smoothly incorporated. This step adds an incredible richness and velvety texture that elevates our Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole to another level.
Next, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the shredded Gruyère (or Swiss) cheese. Continue stirring until all the cheese has melted into a wonderfully smooth, homogenous sauce. It should be luscious and inviting!
If you’re using it, stir in the ½ teaspoon of Dijon mustard. It acts as a secret ingredient, cutting through the richness and brightening all the cheesy flavors without making the sauce taste like mustard.
Taste the sauce and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Remember, the cheeses already contribute some salt, so add sparingly and taste as you go. You want it perfectly balanced. The sauce should be incredibly flavorful and wonderfully creamy. Remove the pan from the heat. Our magnificent cheese sauce for the Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole is now complete and ready for assembly!

Assembling Your Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole

Now comes the fun part – putting all those delicious components together to create our ultimate Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole! Layering is key here, ensuring that every spoonful delivers a harmonious blend of tender potatoes, savory meat, and gooey cheese sauce. This is where your masterpiece truly takes shape.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure your oven rack is in the middle position for even baking.
Recall that 9×13-inch baking dish you lightly greased earlier? Retrieve it! We’re going to start building our layers of deliciousness right here.
First Layer: Potatoes! Arrange about half of your par-cooked and drained potato slices evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Try to overlap them slightly, creating a solid base. Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly flat; a little rustic charm is always welcome.
Next Up: Meat! Spoon half of your flavorful ground beef and ham mixture over the potato layer. Spread it out as evenly as you can, making sure you get some of that savory goodness in every corner of the dish.
Then: Cheese Sauce! Ladle about one-third of your luxurious cheese sauce over the meat layer. Use the back of your spoon to gently spread it, ensuring it covers the meat and seeps down into the potato layer. Oh, the anticipation!
A Sprinkle of Extra Cheese: Now, generously sprinkle about ½ cup of the extra shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the cheese sauce layer. Because you can never have too much cheese in a Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole, right?
Repeat the Layers: Now, let’s do it all again!
- Carefully place the remaining half of your potato slices over the cheese layer, creating your second potato layer.
- Spoon the remaining half of the ground beef and ham mixture over the second potato layer, spreading it out evenly.
- Pour another one-third of the glorious cheese sauce over the meat. Gently spread it out.
- Sprinkle another ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
The Grand Finale Layer: You should now have one-third of your cheese sauce remaining. Pour this final portion evenly over the last layer of cheese. This will be the beautiful, creamy top.
The Ultimate Cheesy Topping: Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese generously over the entire top of the casserole. This will melt into a golden-brown, bubbly crust that is the hallmark of any truly satisfying Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole. This top layer ensures maximum cheese pull and visual appeal!

Baking to Golden Perfection

We’ve meticulously prepared and assembled our magnificent Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole. Now, it’s time for the oven to work its magic, transforming all those wonderful individual components into a cohesive, bubbling, and utterly irresistible dish. This baking phase is crucial for ensuring the potatoes are tender, the sauce is perfectly set, and the cheese topping is golden and bubbly.

Carefully place your assembled baking dish into the preheated 375°F (190°C) oven.
To ensure even cooking and to prevent the cheese on top from browning too quickly before the potatoes are fully tender, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake for 30 minutes with the foil on. This initial covered baking period creates a steamy environment that helps the potatoes cook through perfectly and allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. You’ll notice the casserole starting to bubble gently beneath the foil.
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the aluminum foil. Be mindful of the steam that will escape! Now, your Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole will be exposed, ready for that gorgeous golden-brown finish.
Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and continue baking for another 25-35 minutes. During this time, the cheese on top will melt, bubble, and turn a beautiful golden-brown. You’ll also notice the edges of the casserole becoming wonderfully bubbly and the sauce thickening further. The potatoes should be completely tender when pierced with a knife or fork. If you prefer an extra crispy, deep golden crust, you can even switch on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch it like a hawk to prevent burning!
Once the casserole is bubbling hot, golden-brown, and the potatoes are tender, carefully remove it from the oven.
The Rest is Best! This is a very important, often overlooked, step for any casserole. Let the Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole rest on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the sauce to set properly, preventing it from being too runny when you cut into it. It also gives all those incredible flavors a chance to fully marry and deepen. Your patience will be rewarded with cleaner slices and a more enjoyable texture.
If desired, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley just before serving for a touch of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Your incredible Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole is ready! After all that love and effort, you deserve to enjoy every single bite. This hearty dish is fantastic on its own, but a few simple additions can make it an even more complete and satisfying meal. And of course, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious leftovers fresh!

Serving:
- A Simple Green Salad: The richness of the casserole pairs perfectly with a light, crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. It offers a wonderful contrast and a refreshing bite.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: A side of tender-crisp green beans, broccoli, or asparagus would complement the casserole beautifully, adding extra nutrition and vibrant color to your plate.
- Warm Crusty Bread: Who can resist using a piece of warm, crusty bread to sop up any leftover cheesy sauce? It’s a classic for a reason!
- Pickles or Pickled Onions: The acidity of pickles or pickled red onions can be a fantastic counterpoint to the rich, savory flavors of the Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole, adding a zesty zing.
I find that a generous slice of this casserole, accompanied by a simple side, makes for a perfect family dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly evening. It’s truly a complete meal in itself, brimming with flavor and satisfaction.
Storage:
- Cooling: Allow any leftover Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole to cool completely to room temperature before storing. This is important to prevent condensation and keep it fresh.
- Refrigeration: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen even more overnight, making leftovers a real treat!
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions of the casserole. Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It will maintain its quality in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating:
- In the Oven: This is my preferred method for reheating, as it helps maintain the casserole’s texture and prevents it from drying out. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the desired portion of casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
- In the Microwave: For a quick reheat, individual portions can be warmed in the microwave. Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely (a damp paper towel works well), and heat on medium power for 2-4 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the sauce dry out.
No matter how you choose to enjoy it, I hope this Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole brings warmth and happiness to your table. It’s a recipe close to my heart, and I’m so glad to share it with you!

Conclusion:

My culinary journey with you today culminates in what I truly believe is a masterpiece of comfort food – a dish that transcends mere sustenance to become a warm embrace on a plate. If there’s one recipe you absolutely must add to your weeknight rotation or special occasion menu, it’s this one. The sheer simplicity of its assembly belies the profound depth of flavor it delivers, making it an undeniable crowd-pleaser. We’re talking about a dish that effortlessly combines the hearty satisfaction of ground beef, the smoky allure of ham, and the tender, earthy goodness of potatoes, all bound together by layers of melting, gooey cheese. It’s rich, it’s savory, and it’s unapologetically delicious. Every single bite offers a symphony of textures and tastes, proving why the Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a memory in the making for your family and friends. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone gather closer, forks poised, eagerly awaiting their next delightful mouthful.

This casserole isn’t just about deliciousness; it’s about the ease it brings to your kitchen. Imagine preparing a dish that looks and tastes like you’ve spent hours slaving away, when in reality, much of the work is hands-off as it bakes to golden perfection. It’s perfect for those bustling weekdays when time is a precious commodity, yet you still yearn for a homemade, heartwarming meal. But it’s equally fantastic for weekend gatherings, offering a substantial and universally loved option that feeds a crowd without breaking the bank or your back. Its robust character means it holds up beautifully for leftovers, perhaps even tasting better the next day as the flavors continue to meld and deepen. Truly, its versatility and broad appeal are unmatched, ensuring that it will become a cherished staple in your home.

Serving Suggestions for an Elevated Experience:

While our Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole is a complete meal in itself, pairing it with a few thoughtfully chosen sides can elevate the dining experience even further. I love serving it alongside a crisp, vibrant green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette; the fresh acidity cuts through the richness of the casserole beautifully, providing a lovely balance to the palate. Steamed or roasted vegetables like tender-crisp broccoli florets, garlicky green beans, or sweet glazed carrots also make fantastic companions, adding both color and essential nutrients to your plate. And for those who, like me, appreciate every last bit of deliciousness, a side of crusty artisan bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover cheesy goodness from the bottom of the dish. For an extra touch of indulgence, a dollop of cool sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or green onions over each serving adds a delightful tang and freshness that brightens the entire dish.

Creative Variations to Explore:

The beauty of a great casserole lies in its adaptability, and this Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole is no exception. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own! If you’re looking to switch up the protein, ground turkey or even leftover shredded chicken would work wonderfully in place of the beef, offering a lighter take while still maintaining that comforting texture. For an extra burst of flavor and texture, consider sautéing some diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms along with the beef. Frozen peas or corn can be stirred in during the final assembly, adding a touch of sweetness and color. If you’re a cheese connoisseur, feel free to experiment with different varieties; a blend of Monterey Jack, sharp cheddar, and a hint of smoked gouda could add incredible depth. For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or some finely diced jalapeños (seeds removed for less intensity) can introduce a pleasant kick that complements the savory ingredients. You could even swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor profile and added nutrients. Another fantastic idea is to add a crunchy topping in the last 15 minutes of baking – think crushed butter crackers, panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter, or even crispy fried onions. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this recipe to your family’s specific tastes and what you have on hand.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that promises to deliver pure comfort and satisfaction. This isn’t just another recipe; it’s an invitation to create something truly special in your kitchen. Whether it’s a bustling weeknight dinner, a lazy weekend lunch, or a potluck contribution that will earn you rave reviews, this Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. I genuinely believe it has the power to become one of those cherished family recipes that gets requested again and again, year after year, forming a delicious part of your culinary legacy.

I am absolutely thrilled for you to try this recipe! There’s nothing I love more than hearing about your experiences in the kitchen. Once you’ve whipped up your own batch of this incredible casserole, please come back and share your thoughts. Did you stick to the original, or did you put your own creative spin on it? What were your favorite parts? Did your family devour it as quickly as mine does? Your feedback, photos, and any delightful variations you discover are not only incredibly valuable but also genuinely inspiring to me and other home cooks. Don’t hesitate to share your triumphs and even your learning moments; we’re all on this delicious journey together. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear all about your amazing Cheesy Beef Ham Potato Casserole adventure!