Dad's Casserole
1 to 2 quarts plus 4 tablespoons water 2 tablespoon salt 8 medium potatoes, cubed 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 2 medium onions, chopped 3 celery sticks, sliced 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 tablespoon fresh cilantro 1/4 cup butter 1/2 cup milk 1 (12 ounces or 16 ounces) package bacon, cooked, crumbled 1/2 cup ham, cubed bits 1/2 cup bread crumbs 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
In a large pot, add 1 to 2 quart of water and salt. Bring to boil. Add potatoes and boil for 15 to 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender. In a large saucepan, add oil and sauté onion, celery and garlic for 3 to 5 minutes. Add black pepper, garlic powder, cilantro and 4 tablespoons water; Stir in a little. Add butter and melt in medium-low heat. Add milk. Add 2/3 of the potatoes and mix well. In a big mixing bowl add the remaining of the potatoes and the potato mixture from the saucepan. Mash and mix well. Add bacon and ham and mix well. Divide Mash potatoes in small casserole dishes or put everything in one medium casserole dish. Top with bread crumbs and cheese. Bake at 350 °F; for 5 to 10 minutes or until cheese is melt.