Cheesy Potato and Ham Casserole

I think it's ham week in my house.  It seems to be the theme.  I love being able to buy diced ham at the grocery store.  It makes it so simple to make dishes like this for dinner.  Who doesn't like ham, potatoes, and cheese for dinner.  This is a perfect winter's night dinner choice.  

4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)

1 1/2 cup diced cooked ham

1 chopped white onion

2 cups shredded cheese of your choice, divided

3 Tbsp butter

3 Tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

Pinch of garlic powder

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  Grease a 9 x 13" baking dish.

Melt butter over medium heat in a saucepan.  Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.  Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened (about 4 - 5 minutes).  Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened (about 4 - 5 minutes).  Stir in 1 1/2 cups of cheese, salt, pepper, and seasonings until melted.  

Layer half of the potatoes in the prepared dish.  Tope with half the ham and onions.  Pour half the cheese sauce over the layer.  Repeat with remaining potatoes, ham, onions, and sauce.  Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup of cheese.

Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.  Remove foil and bake 15 - 20 minutes more, until golden brown and bubbly.  

Let sit 10 minutes before serving so sauce thickens.  

Just add a green veggie and you have a perfect comfort dinner!