Cheesy Ham and Cabbage Casserole

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Cheesy Ham and Cabbage Casserole.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C) and generously greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter to ensure your casserole comes out perfectly.

2. Step 2

   Next, layer the chopped ham evenly across the bottom of the dish, creating a savory foundation for your meal.

3. Step 3

   Take your thawed hash browns and place them on a microwave-safe plate.

4. Step 4

   Pop them in the microwave on high for about 1 minute and 30 seconds, just until they’re warm but not fully cooked.

5. Step 5

   Set them aside for now.

6. Step 6

   In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

7. Step 7

   Once it’s melted, toss in the chopped onions and sauté them for about 2 to 3 minutes until they start to turn translucent.

8. Step 8

   Then, add the chopped cabbage and stir frequently, cooking until it wilts slightly but still retains a nice crunch, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.

9. Step 9

   Now, mix in the shredded carrots and those warm hash browns, ensuring everything is well combined before transferring this colorful mixture over the ham in your baking dish.

10. Step 10

    Wipe out the skillet to keep things tidy, then melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

11. Step 11

    In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, dry mustard, and white pepper.

12. Step 12

    Sprinkle this mixture over the melted butter, stirring constantly until it bubbles, which should take around 3 minutes.

13. Step 13

    Let it bubble for another minute while you keep stirring to develop that rich flavor.

14. Step 14

    Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid any lumps.

15. Step 15

    Cook this mixture until it comes to a gentle boil and thickens, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.

16. Step 16

    If you find the sauce is a bit too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to add an extra 3 to 4 tablespoons of milk to reach your desired creaminess.

17. Step 17

    Once it’s just right, remove it from the heat.

18. Step 18

    Now, stir in half of the grated Cheddar cheese until it melts beautifully, then add the remaining cheese and mix until everything is fully melted and combined into a luscious sauce.

19. Step 19

    Pour this cheesy goodness over the casserole, making sure to cover it evenly.

20. Step 20

    For a delightful crunch, sprinkle crumbled bacon and crushed crackers on top.

21. Step 21

    Finally, place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

22. Step 22

    Once it’s done, serve it warm and enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting dish!.