Easy Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole

If you’re searching for a warm and comforting meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious, this cheesy ham and potato casserole is the answer. This beloved dish combines the richness of cheese with the savory goodness of ham, all nestled in a bed of perfectly cooked potatoes. It’s the ultimate comfort food that fits every occasion, from cozy family dinners to special holiday gatherings.

As a child, Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house were a feast of flavors, with this dish as the main attraction every single time. Watching her through the years, I learned the secrets of balancing the creaminess of the cheese with the juiciness of the ham. It became a tradition I eagerly looked forward to, and now, I carry forward this family legacy by making it for my own family, enjoying the same comforting warmth it brings to our table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a weeknight savior with its simplicity and quick preparation time. Here’s why it stands out:

• Convenience: Use leftover ham and pantry staples to create something extraordinary.
• Customizable: Easily adapt it to suit dietary needs or preferences.
• Fridge to Oven in No Time: Minimal prep work needed for a dish that bakes to perfection.
• Every Bite Counts: Rich flavors and textures that everyone will love.

Ingredients Notes

For best results, choose a semi-hard cheese like cheddar or Colby. Both melt well and complement the saltiness of the ham perfectly. If you’re short on time, pre-sliced potatoes work well, but for maximum flavor, fresh-cut is always best. Try substituting turkey for a leaner option or mixing in some diced bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and ensures easy cleanup.

Step 2

Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, followed by half of the ham. Sprinkle a layer of cheese over the top.

Step 3

Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, and cheese. Season each layer with salt and pepper before adding the next.

Step 4

In a separate bowl, whisk together cream and chicken stock. Pour this mixture over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil.

Step 5

Bake covered for 45 minutes. Then, uncover and bake an additional 20-30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.

Storage Options

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions individually for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow the casserole to thaw in the fridge overnight and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Variations & Substitutions

For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and add spinach and mushrooms for texture and depth. Alternatively, a Mexican twist with Jalapeños and Monterey Jack cheese can spice things up. For a healthier take, use sweet potatoes and turkey bacon for a lower-fat option.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is perfect for a cozy, quiet evening or a bustling family meal. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad and buttery dinner rolls for a complete meal that’s satisfying and soul-warming. It pairs beautifully with a light white wine or apple cider for non-alcoholic gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it fresh before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, any cheese that melts well like mozzarella, Swiss, or gouda can be used. Feel free to mix and match to find a combination that suits your taste buds.

What can I do if my casserole is too runny? If you notice excess liquid while baking, try adding a tablespoon of flour to the cream mixture to thicken. If it’s already baked, serve with slotted spoonfuls or bake uncovered a bit longer to evaporate some of the liquid.

Easy Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole

This easy cheesy ham and potato casserole is the perfect comfort food dish, combining tender potatoes, savory ham, and gooey cheese in a creamy sauce.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour

Servings: 6

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 2 cups diced ham cooked
• ▢ 3 cups cubed potatoes peeled
• ▢ 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ▢ 1 cup sour cream
• ▢ 0.5 cup chopped onion
• ▢ 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can)
• ▢ 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• ▢ 0.5 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
• In a large bowl, mix together the diced ham, cubed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onion, cream of chicken soup, black pepper, and salt.
• Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
• Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

This dish can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if baking from chilled.