Savory layers of potatoes, ham, and cheese baked into a creamy, golden main dish.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
→ Meats
03 - 2 cups cooked ham, diced
→ Dairy
04 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
05 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
06 - 2 cups whole milk
07 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
08 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
→ Spices & Seasonings
09 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
11 - 1 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
→ Others
13 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
14 - Nonstick cooking spray
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish using nonstick cooking spray.
02 - Melt unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in all-purpose flour and continue whisking for 1 minute until combined and smooth.
03 - Gradually whisk in whole milk and cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
04 - Remove saucepan from heat and stir in garlic powder, salt, black pepper, 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar, and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella until cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth.
05 - Arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the baking dish. Evenly distribute half the diced ham and half the chopped onion over the potatoes. Pour half of the cheese sauce on top.
06 - Repeat layering with the remaining potatoes, ham, onions, and cheese sauce.
07 - Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella over the top. If desired, dust with smoked paprika for added flavor.
08 - Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
09 - Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes or until the casserole surface is golden brown and potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
10 - Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
