Ham and Potato Casserole

 Ingredients:

2 lbs. Russett potatoes

2 C. cubed ham

1 1/2 C. shredded sharp white cheddar cheese, divided

3 T. unsalted butter

3/4 C. chopped yellow onion 

3 garlic cloves, minced

3/4 t. salt

1/2 t. fresh ground pepper

1/2 t. smoked paprika

1/2 t. ground mustard

1 t. dried parsley (or 2 t. fresh chopped parsley)

3 T. all-purpose flour

2 C. whole milk

optional, for garnish: chopped fresh parsley, green onion, chives, or hot sauce

Directions:

1. Peel potatoes, cut into 3/4-inch pieces. You’ll have just over 6 cups chopped potatoes. 
2. Cover with water in a medium pot. 
3. Bring to boil. Once boiling, boil for just 5–6 minutes. Potatoes should be only slightly softened.
4. Drain. 
5. Grease a 9×13-inch or any 3–4-quart oven-safe dish. 
6. Add warm drained potatoes, ham, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. 
7. Gently stir together. 
8. Set aside.
9. Preheat oven to 375°F.
10. Melt the butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. 
11. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until onions have softened, about 3 minutes. 
12. Stir in salt, pepper, smoked paprika, ground mustard, parsley, and flour until combined and flour has absorbed any liquid. 
13. Reduce heat to low, and then slowly stir in the milk. 
14. Simmer for 3–5 minutes or until thickened into a gravy consistency. 
15. Remove from heat. 
16. Taste and, if desired, add more salt, pepper, paprika, mustard, or parsley to taste.
17. Pour warm sauce over ham and potatoes. 
18. Toss gently to coat.
19. Bake, covered with aluminum foil, for 30 minutes. 
20. Remove aluminum foil, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, and return to the oven for 5–10 more minutes or until cheese is melted and casserole is bubbling around the edges.
21. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley, green onion, chives, or a drizzle of hot sauce.