Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite

Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite 🥔🍖🧀

This Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with hearty ingredients like tender potatoes and savory ham. It’s the perfect dish to warm up your family dinner, whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or using up leftover holiday ham. With its gooey melted cheese, creamy sauce, and satisfying layers of flavor, this casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.

Let’s dive into how to make this deliciously comforting dish!

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

1. Comfort in Every Bite : Creamy potatoes, melty cheese, and savory ham come together for a dish that’s pure comfort.
2. Great for Leftovers : Perfect for using up leftover ham or meal prepping for the week.
3. Customizable : Add veggies like peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.
4. Family-Friendly : Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy, hearty dish.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 4–5 cups )
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided )
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for variety )
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup diced onion (optional )
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or rosemary for a fragrant twist )
• Salt and pepper , to taste
• 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping )
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Layer the Potatoes

1. Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

3. Add the Ham and Cheese

1. Sprinkle half of the diced ham over the potatoes.
2. Top with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese , spreading it out evenly.

4. Repeat Layers

1. Add the remaining potatoes on top of the cheese layer.
2. Sprinkle the remaining diced ham over the potatoes.
3. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese .

5. Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, diced onion (if using), garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish, ensuring it seeps down into the layers.

6. Add the Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix the crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter.
2. Sprinkle the buttery topping evenly over the casserole for a crunchy, golden crust.

7. Bake to Perfection

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes .
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes , or until the top is golden brown, the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, and the cheese is bubbly.

8. Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Use Thinly Sliced Potatoes : Uniform slices ensure even cooking. Use a mandoline slicer if you have one for consistent thickness.
• Add Veggies : Stir in frozen peas, diced carrots, or steamed broccoli for added color and nutrition.
• Make Ahead : Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add 10–15 extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
• Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free cream soup and breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but here are some ideas to round out the meal:

• Side Salad : Pair with a simple green salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
• Steamed Vegetables : Serve with roasted green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.
• Bread or Rolls : Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Condiments : Offer hot sauce or extra shredded cheese on the side for those who want to customize their serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories : ~350 kcal
• Protein : ~20g
• Carbohydrates : ~25g
• Fat : ~20g
• Fiber : ~3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish—rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re using up leftover ham, feeding a hungry family, or simply craving something warm and satisfying, this recipe is sure to please.

With its gooey cheese, tender potatoes, and crispy topping, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. So grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to serve a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious.