How To Bake Ham And Cheesy Potatoes At The Same Time

When it comes to preparing a delicious and satisfying meal, there's nothing quite like the combination of baked ham and cheesy potatoes. The savory flavors of the ham paired with the creamy, cheesy goodness of the potatoes make for a winning combination that is sure to please the whole family. In this article, we'll explore how you can easily bake both the ham and cheesy potatoes at the same time, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.

Preparing the Ham

Before you begin baking, it's important to prepare the ham. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Choose the Right Ham: Select a pre-cooked ham that is the right size for your gathering. A bone-in ham will provide the best flavor, but a boneless ham can also work well.
2. Score the Ham: Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern. This will help the glaze to penetrate the meat and add flavor.
3. Apply the Glaze: Prepare a glaze using a combination of brown sugar, honey, and mustard. Brush the glaze over the surface of the ham, ensuring that it is evenly coated.

Preparing the Cheesy Potatoes

Now, let's move on to preparing the cheesy potatoes. Here's what you'll need to do:

1. Gather Your Ingredients: You'll need potatoes, cheese, butter, milk, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Slice the Potatoes: Wash and slice the potatoes into thin rounds. This will ensure that they cook evenly in the oven.
3. Layer the Potatoes: In a baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes with shredded cheese, dotting each layer with butter and sprinkling with the seasonings.
4. Add the Liquid: Pour a mixture of milk and a little bit of flour over the layered potatoes. This will create a creamy, cheesy sauce as the potatoes bake.

Baking Both Together

Now that the ham and cheesy potatoes are prepared, it's time to bake them together. Here's how to do it:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to the appropriate temperature for baking the ham.
2. Choose the Right Pan: Place the prepared ham in a roasting pan and cover it with foil. Place the pan in the oven.
3. Coordinate Cooking Times: The ham will need to bake for a certain amount of time based on its weight. About 30 minutes before the ham is due to be finished, place the dish of cheesy potatoes in the oven as well.
4. Monitor the Progress: Keep an eye on both the ham and the cheesy potatoes as they bake. You may need to adjust the temperature or position of the dishes in the oven to ensure even cooking.

Serving the Meal

Once both the ham and cheesy potatoes are fully cooked, it's time to serve up a delicious meal for your family or guests. Slice the ham and arrange it on a platter alongside the cheesy potatoes. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to be a hit!

In conclusion, baking ham and cheesy potatoes at the same time is a convenient way to prepare a hearty and satisfying meal. By following these simple steps, you can save time and effort in the kitchen while still serving up a delicious and impressive dish. So why not give it a try for your next family gathering or special occasion? Your taste buds will thank you!