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The Ultimate Comfort Food: Your New Favorite Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole
Imagine a golden-brown, bubbling dish, its aroma filling your kitchen. Crispy edges, a creamy, cheesy center, studded with savory ham and tender potatoes. This isn’t just any side dish; it’s the legendary Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole, a dish so universally loved, it earns a spot at every holiday table and potluck. Whether for an Easter brunch casserole, a cozy Christmas breakfast casserole, or a hearty comfort food casserole on a weeknight, this recipe delivers. It’s also the ultimate leftover ham recipe, transforming holiday remnants into something spectacular. Get ready for a simple, no-fuss meal that promises big, unforgettable flavors.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This isn’t just another ham and potato casserole; it’s a game-changer. Here’s why this particular Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole stands out:
- Incredibly Easy: Minimal prep work involved. Just mix, dump, and bake – perfect for busy mornings or relaxed evenings.
- Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: Uses common ingredients you likely have, like condensed soup and casserole with frozen hash browns.
- Perfect for Leftovers: The absolute best way to utilize that delicious leftover ham recipe from holiday feasts.
- A Crowd-Pleaser: This family-friendly cheesy hashbrown bake disappears fast. A fantastic potluck casserole idea and always a hit.
- Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly: A lifesaver for hectic schedules! This make ahead breakfast casserole makes your holiday morning breakfast stress-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting the perfect Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what to gather, with tips and substitutions.
For the Casserole Base:
- Frozen Hash Browns: 30-32 ounces. Shredded or cubed work; shredded offers a creamier texture. Do not thaw them first! This prevents a watery casserole with frozen hash browns.
- Condensed Soup: One can (10.5 oz) cream of potato soup is ideal. Cream of chicken, mushroom, or cheddar are great alternatives, adding unique flavor to this creamy ham and cheese casserole.
- Sour Cream: 1 cup (8 oz) full-fat sour cream for richness and tang. Plain Greek yogurt is a lighter option. Essential for a true sour cream hash brown casserole.
- Shredded Cheese: 2 cups sharp cheddar is recommended for robust flavor. Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere also work. Shred your own from a block for best melt and creaminess.
- Cooked Ham: 2 cups diced cooked ham, perfect for casserole with diced ham from holidays. Ham steaks or pre-packaged diced ham are fine too. Cooked crumbled sausage or bacon can be substituted.
Optional Toppings & Seasonings:
- For a Crunchy Topping: Enhance your cheesy hashbrown bake with crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed Ritz crackers.
- Seasonings: Black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika can deepen the flavor profile. A pinch of dry mustard powder also complements ham and cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions (How to Make Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole)
Creating this delicious Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole is straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect bake every time.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. This ensures easy serving of your hearty 9×13 breakfast casserole.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine condensed soup, sour cream, and half (1 cup) of the shredded cheese. Add black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until smooth and well-combined, forming the heart of your creamy ham and cheese casserole.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
Gently fold in the frozen hash browns and diced cooked ham into the creamy mixture. Mix thoroughly to ensure all potatoes and ham are evenly coated. This distribution is key to every perfect bite of your Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into your prepared 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly for consistent baking.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top. If using a crunchy topping, add it now. Bake uncovered for 45-60 minutes, or until bubbling, hash browns are tender, and the top is golden brown. For extra crisp, you can bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncovered for the remainder.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Allow the Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This lets flavors meld and the casserole set, making it easier to serve beautifully. Your delicious Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole is ready!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Casserole Every Time
Elevate your Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole from great to unforgettable with these expert pointers:
- Don’t Thaw the Hash Browns: Essential for a creamy, not watery, casserole. Thawing releases liquid.
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Block cheese melts creamier than pre-shredded, which contains anti-caking agents.
- For a Crispier Top: Bake uncovered for the entire duration. For extra crisp, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely!
- Avoid a Greasy Casserole: If using fatty ham, sauté and drain excess fat before adding.
Tasty Variations & Add-Ins
While the classic Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole is perfect, get creative! This adaptable ham and potato casserole welcomes customizations.
- Add Veggies: Sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms add flavor and texture. Stir them in with the ham.
- Spice it Up: Diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper can add a kick to the creamy base.
- Change the Protein: Swap ham for cooked crumbled breakfast sausage, crispy bacon bits, or shredded rotisserie chicken for a different take on this loaded hash brown casserole.
- Different Soups: Experiment with cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or a cheese sauce base for distinct flavor profiles.
- Elevate Toppings: Try French’s fried onions, crushed potato chips, or fresh chives after baking.
What to Serve with Your Casserole
This versatile Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole can anchor any meal. Here are perfect pairing suggestions:
- For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve with scrambled eggs, fried eggs, a fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon, or breakfast sausage. It’s an ideal brunch casserole recipe.
- For Dinner: Pair with a crisp green salad and light vinaigrette. Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or broccoli also make excellent, balancing side dishes.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating Instructions
This Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole is a dream for meal prep, making it an excellent make ahead breakfast casserole for your next holiday morning breakfast.
- Make-Ahead Instructions: Assemble the casserole (without crunchy topping) in your prepared 9×13 breakfast casserole dish. Cover tightly and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Remove from fridge 30 min before baking; bake as directed, adding 10-15 min extra. Add crunchy topping right before baking.
- Storing Leftovers: Cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container; refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing Instructions:
- Baked Casserole: Cool, portion, wrap tightly (plastic then foil). Freeze up to 3 months.
- Unbaked Casserole: Assemble in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight or bake from frozen (add 30-45 min extra baking time).
- Reheating:
- From Refrigerated: Cover loosely with foil, reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven (20-30 min), or microwave individual portions.
- From Frozen (Baked): Bake uncovered in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 45-60 minutes, until thoroughly heated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This section answers common questions about making a perfect Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can. Par-boil and shred about 2 lbs of Russet potatoes. Crucially, squeeze out as much moisture as possible with a cheesecloth or paper towels before mixing to prevent a watery ham and potato casserole.
Do I really need to use condensed soup?
Condensed soup gives this classic funeral potatoes with ham style dish its specific creaminess and flavor. Alternatively, create a homemade substitute: whisk a roux (butter and flour), then add milk/cream and chicken broth, seasoned to taste.
My casserole turned out watery. What went wrong?
The most common cause is thawing hash browns beforehand; always add them frozen! Using low-fat sour cream or not thoroughly draining fresh potatoes can also contribute to excess moisture.
Can I make this Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all ingredients (except crunchy topping) in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Add remaining cheese on top during the last 30 minutes until melted and bubbly.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
Your Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole is fully cooked when the edges are bubbling, the center is hot throughout (165°F/74°C internal temp), and the top is golden brown. Hash browns should be tender when pierced.
💬 Full Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
Ready to make this incredible dish? Find the full printable recipe card below with exact measurements and detailed instructions. Enjoy your perfectly comforting Cheesy Ham Hash Brown Casserole!
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