Cheesy Ham Potato Casserole

2 pounds cooked ham

6 medium potatoes or 12 red new potatoes, cooked with skin on

CHEESE SAUCE

1½ plus ½ cups milk

½ cup Cheez Whiz

½ cup grated cheddar cheese

½ teaspoon salt

Dash of black pepper

¼ cup all-purpose flour

Cut the ham and potatoes into ¾-inch cubes. If using new red potatoes, cut in half. Place the ham and potatoes in a 9 × 13-inch casserole dish.

Prepare the cheese sauce by mixing 1½ cups of the milk with the Cheez Whiz, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper in a heavy saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce simmers. In a small mixing bowl stir the remaining ½ cup milk into the flour until smooth. Stir this mixture into the cheese mixture and cook until it thickens. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring constantly.

Preheat the oven to 350°. Pour the cheese sauce over the ham and potatoes to cover. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese begins to brown.

YIELD: 10 TO 12 SERVINGS