Ham & Potato Cheese Graten

Great family casserole to use leftover ham.

• Ready In: 1 hr 5 mins
• Serves: 8
• Yields: 1 1/2 quart

Ingredients

• 2  cups  cubed potatoes
• 2  carrots, thinly sliced
• 2  stalks celery, slice thinly on the diagonal
• 3  cups water
• 1  teaspoon water
• 1  onion, chopped
• 2  cups  cubed ham
• 3  tablespoons butter
• 4  tablespoons butter
• 3  tablespoons flour
• 1 1⁄2 cups milk
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon pepper
• 1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1  cup  shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1⁄2 cup  soft breadcrumbs
• 1⁄2 teaspoon paprika

Directions

1. In large skillet, bring potatoes, carrots and celery to boil in water with 1 teas. salt. Cover, reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
2. Spray 1 1/2 quart casserole with Pam or grease well.
3. Drain potato mixture and put into casserole dish.
4. Return skillet to medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and sauté onion until clear then add ham. Saute' for 5 minute Pour potato mixture in and gently stir to combine. Return to casserole.
5. Return skillet to medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons butter, sprinkle in flour and stir until thickened. Cook 1 more minute, then slowly add milk, stirring constantly to combine. Add salt, pepper and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes, then add 1 cup shredded cheese. Stir until thickened and cheese is melted.
6. Pour cheese sauce over ham and potato mixture. Sprinkle with bread crumbs and paprika.
7. Bake at 375 for 20 minutes.
8. NOTE: Can sprinkle parmesean cheese and garlic bowser with bread crumbs for a different topping.