Description
This Cheesy Ham Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food – creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory ham. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. Simple to make with pantry staples, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds potatoes, diced
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- 10.4 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 10.4 ounces of cheddar cheese soup
- 2 cups diced ham
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, diced yellow onion, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, and diced ham.
Step 3: Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to your liking. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 4: Transfer the potato mixture to a 7×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheesy Ham Potato Casserole is a winner for so many reasons:
- Comfort Food Classic: It’s warm, creamy, and cheesy – everything you crave in a comforting dish.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is always a hit at potlucks and family gatherings.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with different cheeses, vegetables, or meats to suit your taste.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main course with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
- Pair with a slice of crusty bread for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
- Excellent as a side dish for holiday dinners, such as Easter or Thanksgiving.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, sauté the diced onion in butter until softened before adding it to the bowl.
- Use leftover ham from a holiday meal to make this casserole even more economical.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- To prevent the cheese from browning too quickly, cover the casserole with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking, then remove the foil for the remaining time.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
Total Time: 60-70 minutes
Nutrition Information: (Approximate values per serving – varies based on specific ingredients and portion size)
Calories: 350-450
Protein: 20-25g
Sodium: 600-800mg
Conclusion
Cheesy Ham Potato Casserole is a delightful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and savory ham make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a potluck dish that everyone will love, this casserole is a fantastic choice. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a unique flavor profile.
Q2: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
A: Definitely! Consider adding cooked broccoli florets, peas, or green beans for extra nutrients and flavor.
Q4: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
A: Yes, fresh potatoes are preferable. Make sure to dice them into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
Q5: What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
A: If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade cream sauce using milk, flour, and butter.
