Mother's Ham Casserole Recipe
One of my mother's favorite dishes, this recipe always brings back fond memories of her when I prepare it. It's a terrific use of leftover ham from a holiday dinner. Our five grandchildren are my favorite interest outside the kitchen!
One of my mother's favorite dishes, this recipe always brings back fond memories of her when I prepare it. It's a terrific use of leftover ham from a holiday dinner. Our five grandchildren are my favorite interest outside the kitchen!
- 3 cups water
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 celery ribs chopped
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped onion
- 2 cups cubed peeled potatoes
- 1/2 cup soft bread crumbs
- 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 -1/2 cups milk
- 7 tablespoons butter divided
- 2 tablespoons chopped green pepper
- 2 cups cubed fully cooked ham
- 1 large carrot sliced
- Carbohydrate 102.370055766082 g
- Cholesterol 95.6321166666667 mg
- Fat 25.3584852017544 g
- Fiber 4.84195008067025 g
- Protein 30.157137502924 g
- Saturated Fat 13.6384634608187 g
- Serving Size 1 1 (487g)
- Sodium 3250.57677777778 mg
- Sugar 97.5281056854116 g
- Trans Fat 5.07750529649123 g
- Calories 770 calories
Step-by-step
- In a saucepan, bring the potatoes, carrot, celery and water to a boil.
- Reduce heat; cover and cook about 15 minutes or until tender. Drain.
- In a large skillet, saute the ham, green pepper and onion in 3 tablespoons butter until tender. Add to the potato mixture. Transfer to a greased 1-1/2-qt. baking dish.
- In a large saucepan, melt the remaining butter; stir in flour until smooth.
- Gradually add the milk, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.
- Reduce heat; add cheese and stir until melted.
- Pour over the ham mixture. Sprinkle with bread crumbs.
- Bake, uncovered, at 375° for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Mother's Ham Casserole: A Recipe Steeped in Family Memories
The aroma of this ham casserole instantly transports me back to my childhood. It's the smell of cozy kitchens, family gatherings, and the unwavering love of my mother. This recipe isn't just a dish; it's a tangible link to the past, a comforting embrace in a world that often feels too fast-paced. Every time I make it, I'm not just following a recipe, I'm reliving cherished memories and sharing a piece of my family's history with those I love.
My mother always made this casserole after a big holiday meal. The leftover ham, a testament to our festive feast, found new life in this creamy, comforting dish. It was never just about the food; it was about the warmth of the kitchen, the laughter around the table, and the feeling of being completely surrounded by the people who meant the most to me. Now, as a mother myself, I find myself recreating this magic, sharing the same delicious comfort with my own children and grandchildren. The tradition continues, a testament to the lasting power of family and simple pleasures.
More than just a recipe, this ham casserole is a symbol of continuity and connection. It's a way to preserve family traditions, ensuring that these special moments and flavors are passed down through generations. The creamy, cheesy sauce, the tender ham, and the perfectly cooked potatoes—each element contributes to a culinary symphony that speaks volumes about family love and cherished memories. And let's be honest, it's absolutely delicious too! The five grandchildren, my pride and joy, are always thrilled when they see this casserole on the table.
This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Feel free to adjust it to your liking. Add different vegetables, experiment with cheeses, or use different types of bread crumbs. The beauty of it lies in its simplicity and its capacity for personal touches. It’s a recipe that invites adaptation and innovation, a reflection of our unique family dynamics and evolving culinary preferences.
It's more than just food; it's a story. It's a story of my mother, her love, and the legacy she’s left behind—a legacy that continues to nourish and warm my heart, one delicious bite at a time.
Making this casserole brings me such joy. It’s a chance to connect with my roots, to honor my mother's memory, and to create new memories with my own family. I encourage you to try it—not just for the delicious taste, but for the chance to create your own family traditions and lasting memories.
