The holiday season is a wonderful time for family gatherings, delicious meals, and creating memories. One dish that fits the bill perfectly for such occasions is the Ham, Potato, and Green Bean Casserole. With just five ingredients, this recipe promises a delightful blend of flavors with minimal effort. Let's dive into how you can make this scrumptious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced
- 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 pound cooked ham, cubed
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by parboiling the potatoes. This means boiling them until they are partially cooked. Slice the Yukon Gold potatoes evenly, ensuring they are of similar thickness to cook uniformly. Submerge them in boiling, salted water for about 7 minutes, then drain.
Step 2: Cook the Green Beans
While the potatoes are boiling, you can quickly cook the green beans. Blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes to retain their vibrant color and slight crunch. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, green beans, and cubed ham. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup ensuring all ingredients are well coated.
| Layer | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Spread half of the potato mixture evenly in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. |
| 2 | Sprinkle half the cheese over the first layer. |
| 3 | Repeat the layers with the remaining potato mixture and finish with a generous topping of the remaining cheese. |
Step 4: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This resting period will help the flavors meld together and the dish to set slightly for easier serving.
📌 Note: For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of milk or cream to the soup before mixing with the other ingredients.
Creating this Ham Potato Green Bean Casserole isn't just about combining flavors; it's about bringing comfort to your table with every spoonful. This dish is versatile, perfect for family dinners or holiday celebrations, and easy enough for a weeknight meal. The golden cheese crust and the creamy, savory inside make this casserole a crowd-pleaser that you'll want to add to your regular recipe rotation. Enjoy the simplicity and the deliciousness of this 5-ingredient wonder, and watch it become a new favorite among your loved ones.
Can I use frozen green beans?
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Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but adjust the cooking time as they might release more moisture. Blanch them first, and then proceed with the recipe.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
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You can substitute with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even make your own cream sauce with a roux, milk, and chicken broth.
How do I make this dish ahead of time?
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Assemble the casserole as instructed but do not bake. Cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as described, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if it’s very cold.
