Leftover Ham?

I have a friend who is trying to use up her leftover ham, and this recipe came to mind. It is so good that even my kids eat it. It is pure comfort food complete with butter, cheese and potatoes. Not for the faint of heart. I found it in a Taste of Home cookbook.

Mom's Ham Casserole
2 c. cubed, peeled potatoes
1 lg. carrot, sliced
2 celery ribs, chopped
2 T. chopped green pepper
2 T. finely chopped onion
2 c. chopped ham
4 T. butter
3 T. flour
1 1/2 c. milk
3/4 t. salt
1/8 t. pepper

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
1) Place potatoes, carrots, and celery in a pot. Cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat and simmer until tender. Drain.
2) Saute green pepper, onion and ham in 3 T. butter until tender. Combine with potato mixture in baking dish.
3) Melt 4 T. butter in saucepan, stir in flour. Add milk, salt and pepper. Stir. Cook until thickened (about 2 minutes). Add 1 c. cheddar cheese after removing pan from heat. Pour sauce over mixture in baking dish. Stir to combine. Top with 1/2 c. soft bread crumbs.
4) Bake 25-30 minutes.

These measurements are according to the cookbook. Feel free to adjust the amounts based on what you have. For example, I usually have extra ham, so I make a few more vegetables and a little extra sauce. Whatever you like.

Hope this helps, G.J.!