Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Ham and Swiss Potato Bake?
It is a hearty and comforting casserole featuring layers of tender baking potatoes, diced ham, sweet peas, and melted Swiss cheese in a rich Alfredo sauce.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 6 to 8 servings.
What is the initial preheat temperature for the oven?
The oven should be preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius.
What size baking dish is required?
A 9 x 13 inch baking dish is required for this recipe.
What ingredients are included in the ham mixture?
The ham mixture consists of 1.5 cups of diced ham, 2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese, and a 10 ounce package of thawed frozen peas.
How do I prepare the Alfredo sauce?
Whisk one 12 ounce jar of Alfredo sauce with 1 cup of milk until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly combined.
What kind of potatoes are recommended?
The recipe calls for 3 lbs of baking potatoes, such as Russets.
How thick should the potato slices be?
The potatoes should be sliced approximately 1/8 inch thick.
Do the potatoes need to be peeled?
Yes, the recipe specifies that the baking potatoes should be peeled before slicing.
Can I substitute the Swiss cheese?
Yes, while Swiss cheese is traditional for this dish, you can use other melting cheeses like cheddar or Gruyere.
What other vegetables can be used?
You can customize the bake by swapping the peas for other vegetables like spinach or broccoli.
How much ham is needed for this dish?
You will need 1.5 cups of diced ham.
How much Parmesan cheese is used?
A total of 6 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese is used throughout the layering process.
How should I prepare the baking dish?
Grease the 9 x 13 inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
What is the first layer placed in the baking dish?
The first layer is 3/4 cup of the Alfredo sauce and milk mixture spread over the bottom of the dish.
How are the potatoes and ham layered?
Layer half of the sliced potatoes, half of the ham mixture, 3/4 cup of sauce, and 3 tablespoons of Parmesan, then repeat the process.
How long should the dish bake while covered?
The dish should be baked covered with aluminum foil for 45 minutes.
Why is the dish covered with aluminum foil during the first stage of baking?
The foil helps steam the potatoes so they become tender without the top of the casserole burning.
At what temperature should the oven be for the second stage of baking?
The oven temperature should be reduced to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
Is the casserole baked uncovered at any point?
Yes, remove the foil for the final 15 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown and become bubbly.
How long is the final uncovered baking time?
The final stage of baking takes approximately 15 minutes.
How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?
The potatoes are done when they are tender when pierced with a fork.
What should the top of the bake look like when finished?
The top should be golden brown and the sauce should be bubbling.
Can I use frozen peas without thawing them?
The recipe recommends using a 10 ounce package of frozen peas that have been thawed.
What is the total baking time for this recipe?
The total baking time is 60 minutes.
Should the dish rest after coming out of the oven?
Yes, let the dish cool slightly before serving to allow the sauce to set.
Is this recipe considered a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is a complete, hearty one-dish meal that includes protein, starch, and vegetables.
How much milk is added to the sauce?
One cup of milk is whisked into the Alfredo sauce jar.
What size jar of Alfredo sauce is required?
You will need one 12 ounce jar of Alfredo sauce.
How many layers of ham mixture are there?
There are two layers of the ham, Swiss cheese, and pea mixture.