Ham and Cheese Potatoes are a delightful upgrade to the classic Potatoes O’Brien, bringing comfort and indulgence to your table. This hearty dish combines the beloved elements of the original recipe with the added richness of ham and cheese, creating a symphony of flavors that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.

As a chef, I’m always excited to share recipes that reimagine familiar favorites, and these Ham and Cheese Potatoes do just that. They take the foundation of Potatoes O’Brien – crispy cubed potatoes with onions and bell peppers – and elevate it to new heights. The potatoes provide a satisfying bite, their creamy interior contrasting beautifully with the slightly crispy edges that develop during baking. The ham adds a savory depth and a pleasant chewiness, while the cheese melts into a luscious blanket that binds everything together.

The origin of Potatoes O’Brien, the inspiration for our Ham and Cheese Potatoes, is actually a subject of culinary debate. Some claim it originated in the early 1900s from a Boston restaurant called Jerome’s, while others attribute its creation to a Manhattan restaurant known as Jack’s during the same period. Regardless of its true origins, this dish has become a beloved American classic, and our cheesy, ham-studded version takes it to the next level.

The addition of cheddar cheese to these Ham and Cheese Potatoes introduces a creamy, tangy element that complements the salty ham perfectly. The bell peppers and onions, staples of the original Potatoes O’Brien, provide a subtle sweetness and a pop of color. The cayenne pepper gives these Ham and Cheese Potatoes a gentle heat that lingers on the palate, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile.

What makes these Ham and Cheese Potatoes truly special is their versatility. Like their predecessor, they’re excellent for breakfast, but they’re equally at home as a satisfying dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution. The leftovers, if there are any, reheat beautifully, making this dish a time-saving option for busy households.

I encourage you to try these Ham and Cheese Potatoes and experience how they take the classic Potatoes O’Brien to new heights. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add your favorite herbs for a personal touch.

Ham and Cheese Potatoes

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4 from 1 review

Whenever I eat ham and cheese potatoes, I am instantly comforted. A little pork, a lot of cheese, and a dash of spice is a great way to dress up potatoes. What I love about this dish is that it is appropriate any time of day, not just dinner. Heat leftovers up the next morning for a hearty breakfast!

• Author: Addie Gundry
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4-6 1x
• Category: Entrées

Ingredients

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• 2lbs small white or red potatoes, cubed (1/2″)
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 small green bell pepper, diced
• 1 (5-ounce) ham steak, cubed
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Coat a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking
2. Combine all of the ingredients in the baking dish and stir. Bake for 30 minutes, stir and bake for another 15 minutes. Serve.

Notes

If you need a quicker meal, buy a 32 oz bag of frozen “Potatoes O’Brien” which includes pre-cubed potatoes with onions and peppers.

Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below – I’d love to hear how this upgraded version becomes a part of your culinary repertoire!