There’s something magical about a hearty, cheesy dish that brings people together. Cheesy ham and potato casserole is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to steal the show. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to create this delicious and satisfying dish.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole
- Comforting: Every bite is packed with creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or side dish for any meal.
- Easy to Make: Uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to get started:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Russet potatoes | 6 cups, diced |
| Cooked ham, cubed | 2 cups |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 2 cups |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 small |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers | 1/2 cup |
| Butter, melted | 2 tablespoons |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Dice the potatoes into small, even-sized cubes and chop the ham into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Potatoes
- Boil the potatoes in salted water for about 10 minutes, until they’re just tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
4. Combine Everything
- Add the cooked potatoes, ham, cheese, and onion to the sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
5. Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
6. Add the Topping
- Mix the breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with the melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
7. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffy texture, but Yukon Gold can work for a creamier result.
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect the meltiness.
- Customize the Topping: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed potato chips or panko for extra crunch.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (1 cup):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 16g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 720mg |
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ham for sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Loaded Style: Top with crispy bacon bits, green onions, and a drizzle of sour cream.
What to Serve with Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Salads: A crisp green salad or coleslaw.
- Bread: Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread.
- Vegetables: Steamed green beans or roasted carrots.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen potatoes? Yes, frozen diced potatoes or hash browns can save time. No need to thaw them first.
2. What other cheeses work well? Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Swiss are great alternatives to cheddar.
3. Can I freeze this casserole? Absolutely! Freeze it unbaked for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
4. How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Can I use canned ham? Yes, but fresh or leftover cooked ham is recommended for better flavor and texture.
6. How can I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the cream of mushroom soup is labeled gluten-free.
Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite
Cheesy ham and potato casserole isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. It combines the best of creamy, cheesy comfort with savory ham and hearty potatoes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this recipe delivers every time.
Your Next Step
Ready to bring this comforting classic to your table? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s get cooking! Don’t forget to share your delicious creation with friends and family. For more recipes and tips, check out Taste of Home or AllRecipes.
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Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Rich, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness, this Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a hearty main dish or a satisfying side, this casserole brings everyone to the table. Perfect for using leftover ham or for a potluck favorite, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients
- 6 cups russet potatoes, diced
- 2 cups cooked ham, cubed
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cook Potatoes
- Place diced potatoes in a large pot and cover with salted water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until just tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Add the cooked potatoes, ham, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped onion to the sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Assemble
- Pour the potato and ham mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish or Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
