Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole is a perfect comfort food that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. This dish brings together the creamy texture of soup and sour cream with the hearty flavors of ham and cheese, making it a family favorite. It’s a great option for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or even holiday gatherings. Plus, it uses frozen ingredients, which makes it a convenient choice when you’re short on time.
How to Make Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 lb bag frozen hash browns
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups diced ham
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, cream of chicken soup, diced ham, sour cream, chopped onion, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- Spread this mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole
You can serve this dish warm straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or bread. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with fresh chives or parsley. This casserole is hearty enough to be a main dish on its own, making it an easy meal solution for busy days.
How to Store Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.
Tips to Make Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole
- Feel free to use leftover ham for this recipe; it adds great flavor!
- You can adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference; adding more cheese makes it extra cheesy!
- If you want a bit of crunch, consider adding crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Variation
You can easily customize this casserole by adding vegetables like broccoli or peas for added nutrition. If you prefer a different protein, shredded chicken or turkey can also be used instead of ham.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes, but you’ll need to peel and dice them, then partially cook them before adding to the mixture.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
