Ham, Potato and Leek Casserole

Ham, Potato and Leek Casserole is a simple recipe that is filling, smells superb and looks appealing. The three main requirements of an excellent main dish. The three main ingredients of Ham, Potato and Leek work so well together especially during the autumn/winter months. This will be a family favourite. To make this recipe, you later the ingredients in the same way as a lasagna, That way every bite is full of flavour and texture.

Ham, Potato and Leek Casserole is a comforting, classic dish that embodies the essence of home cooking. It’s the kind of meal that evokes warmth, filling kitchens with enticing aromas and satisfying both body and soul. With a simple combination of humble ingredients, this casserole transforms everyday staples into a rich, flavourful experience that is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even as a make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.

At the heart of this dish are potatoes, the ultimate comfort food. Russet potatoes are often chosen for their creamy texture and ability to absorb flavours while maintaining a tender bite when baked. In this casserole, they are peeled and sliced, creating layers that meld with the other ingredients to form a cohesive, hearty base. Their natural starchiness also helps to thicken the casserole slightly as it cooks, contributing to a luscious, creamy consistency without needing a heavy sauce.

Leeks play a starring role alongside the potatoes, offering a delicate onion-like flavour that is both sweet and subtly earthy. When baked, leeks soften and infuse the dish with a gentle aromatic quality that balances the richness of the ham and butter. Pimientos, though used sparingly, add a pop of colour and a mild sweetness that brightens the overall flavour profile. Together, these vegetables form a layered mosaic that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Ham, the protein element, brings a savoury depth to the casserole. Using pre-cooked ham ensures convenience, and its slightly salty, smoky flavour pairs perfectly with the more neutral potatoes and the sweetness of the leeks. The ham is sliced and layered carefully, allowing its juices to mingle with the vegetables during baking, which enriches the dish without overpowering the delicate balance of flavours.

One of the hallmarks of this casserole is its simple, yet effective binding method. A light sprinkling of flour between the layers acts as a natural thickener once the milk is added. This technique ensures the liquid gently sets during baking, creating a creamy, cohesive texture that binds all the ingredients together. Butter is dotted on top before baking, adding richness and a golden sheen to the finished dish. Seasoning with salt and pepper is essential, though it should be done with care, as the ham already carries a natural saltiness.

The cooking method itself is straightforward yet rewarding. The Ham, Potato and Leek Casserole is baked in a preheated oven first covered, allowing the ingredients to gently steam and soften, and then uncovered to allow the top to brown lightly and the liquid to thicken. This approach ensures the potatoes are perfectly tender, the leeks melt into the creamy layers, and the ham retains a satisfying texture. Once out of the oven, letting the casserole stand for a few minutes allows the flavours to settle and the layers to firm slightly, making it easier to serve and enjoy.

Ham, Potato and Leek Casserole exemplifies the charm of layered, baked dishes. It is versatile enough to adapt to what’s available in your kitchen—milk can be substituted with chicken stock for a lighter version, or other vegetables can be added for a personal twist. The result is a meal that is both comforting and visually appealing, making it a timeless addition to any cook’s repertoire. Whether enjoyed as a simple weeknight supper or served as part of a larger family meal, this casserole embodies homey, satisfying flavours in every bite, celebrating the beauty of simple ingredients elevated through thoughtful preparation and gentle baking.

Ham, Potato and Leek Casserole is the kind of dish that invites lingering at the table, that fills the kitchen with a sense of warmth, and that always leaves room for seconds. A true testament to the power of humble ingredients transformed with care, Ham, Potato and Leek Casserole is more than just a dish—it’s comfort in a casserole dish.

Ham, Potato and Leek Casserole

Ham, Potato and Leek Casserole is a simple dish that is so welcome on colder evenings when you need a lovely warmth.

4.77 from 227 votes

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Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: British

Keyword: Casserole, Ham, Ham, Potato and Leek Casserole, Vegetables

Cook Time: 1 hour hour 10 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 20 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 people

Calories: 235kcal

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Ingredients

 

MetricImperial

• ▢ 5 large russet potatoes peeled and sliced
• ▢ 2 large leeks chopped
• ▢ 2 oz pimientos drained/chopped
• ▢ 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• ▢ 12 oz cooked ham sliced
• ▢ 1 1/2 cups chicken stock or milk
• ▢ 3 tbsp butter
• ▢ salt to taste
• ▢ ground pepper to taste

Instructions

• Place one third of the potatoes in a greased 3-quart casserole or baking dish.
  5 large russet potatoes
• Sprinkle with one third of the leeks, pimientos, and flour.
  2 large leeks, 2 oz pimientos, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Add half the ham.
  12 oz cooked ham
• Repeat, and finish with a layer of leeks, pimientos, and flour.
• Season with salt and pepper – remember, the ham may be salty – and pour the stock over all.
  salt, ground pepper, 1 1/2 cups chicken stock
• Dot with butter and bake covered in a preheated 350F (180C) oven for 30 minutes.
  3 tbsp butter
• Remove the cover and bake until the potatoes are tender and the liquid has thickened, 30 to 40 minutes.
• Let the Ham, Potato and Leek Casserole stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 235kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 68mg | Sodium: 990mg | Potassium: 122mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g