Pepper Jack, Ham, and Potato Casserole Recipe
Transform your leftover ham into a delectable dish with this hearty and flavorful Pepper Jack, Ham, and Potato Casserole. Inspired by a classic “Fix It and Forget It” recipe but with my own twists, including a switch to Pepper Jack cheese and some low-fat options, this casserole is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and spicy. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and makes for a satisfying one-dish meal that your whole family will adore. Here’s how you can whip up this scrumptious meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 5 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup leftover ham, cubed
- 1/4 cup Monterey Jack pepper cheese, shredded
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (a mix of white, green, red, and black peppercorns can be used for extra flavor)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or use a low-fat version if preferred)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small cubes, about 1/2 inch in size. Cube your leftover ham into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the onion and shred the Monterey Jack pepper cheese if it isn’t already shredded.
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Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, cubed ham, shredded cheese, chopped onion, and the can of cream of mushroom soup. Season with black pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well mixed, ensuring the potatoes and ham are evenly coated with the soup and cheese.
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Cook the Casserole:
- In a Crockpot: Transfer the mixture to your crockpot. Set the crockpot to High and cook for about 3 1/2 to 4 hours. Alternatively, you can set it to Low and cook for 6 to 8 hours, depending on your schedule and desired level of doneness. The casserole is ready when the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the casserole is done cooking, give it a good stir to mix everything up. Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread.
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Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This casserole also freezes well; just portion out servings and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 277
- Fat: 8.8g
- Saturated Fat: 4.4g
- Cholesterol: 48.1mg
- Sodium: 1078.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 27.7g
- Fiber: 3.5g
- Sugar: 1.7g
- Protein: 21.6g
Notes:
- For a healthier version, consider using low-fat cheese and a low-sodium soup to reduce the calorie and sodium content.
- Feel free to add some vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
- This recipe is versatile, so you can substitute the ham with other meats or even keep it vegetarian by adding mushrooms or more cheese.
This Pepper Jack, Ham, and Potato Casserole is a great way to use up leftover ham and make a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners! 🍽️✨
