Cheesy Ham Potato Casserole

This Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole is pure comfort food baked until bubbly and golden. It is perfect for using up leftover ham and makes any cold night feel just a little bit cozier while filling your kitchen with an irresistible cheesy aroma.

I first whipped this up after a holiday when our fridge was overflowing with ham and everyone now asks for it by name each winter when the nights get cold and long.

Ingredients

• Potatoes: diced for hearty bites and structure choose waxy potatoes for best texture
• Yellow onion: for subtle sweetness and depth pick one that feels heavy and firm for best flavor
• Cream of chicken soup: forms a creamy base and brings all the flavors together look for a version with fewer additives if possible
• Cheddar cheese soup: amps up the cheesiness and makes every bite rich choose a sharp cheddar style soup if you can find it
• Diced ham: adds smoky saltiness use leftover holiday ham for extra flavor
• Sour cream: makes the sauce extra creamy and tangy buy full-fat for the best result
• Shredded cheddar cheese: creates that perfect melty topping grate your own from a block to maximize meltiness
• Salt and black pepper: to balance flavors taste and adjust before baking for seasoning perfection

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Potatoes and Onion:

Dice potatoes into bite-size pieces and chop half of a yellow onion finely. A uniform cut will make sure everything cooks evenly and feels great in every bite.

Mix the Base:

In a large mixing bowl combine potatoes onion cream of chicken soup cheddar cheese soup sour cream and diced ham. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is coated and distributed.

Transfer to Baking Dish:

Spoon the mixture into a seven by thirteen inch baking dish. Press gently to create an even layer. You want all the potatoes nestled into the creamy base.

Add the Cheese Topping:

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. A generous layer will mean every portion has a melty cheesy lid. Do not skimp here.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the baking dish in a preheated three hundred fifty degree oven. Bake for forty five to fifty five minutes until the potatoes are fork tender and the cheese is bubbling and starting to turn golden around the edges.

Rest and Serve:

Let the casserole rest a few minutes so it thickens slightly before you scoop out hearty portions. This helps set the casserole and makes serving easier.

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There is something magical about the way sharp cheddar melts into the casserole forming a golden crust that my family fights over. I always remember my son waiting by the oven just to nab the first cheesy scoop off the edge.

Storage Tips

Cool your casserole to room temperature then cover and refrigerate for up to four days. To reheat bake covered at a low temperature to preserve the creamy texture or use the microwave for quick lunches.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have cheddar cheese soup you can double the cream of chicken and stir in an extra handful of shredded cheddar for flavor. You can use leftover turkey or cooked chicken in place of ham for a different spin. For a vegetarian version substitute a can of cream of mushroom soup and skip the ham.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner. This casserole also works beautifully as a brunch centerpiece served with scrambled eggs or fruit salad alongside.

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Cultural Context

Casseroles became a staple in twentieth century American kitchens as economical crowd pleasers that could stretch leftover meat and simple pantry ingredients. Cheesy ham and potato casseroles remain a nostalgic classic across the Midwest where communities often gather for potlucks and church suppers featuring comfort food like this.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use leftover cooked ham?

Yes, leftover cooked ham works perfectly. Simply dice and add it as directed for a flavorful result.

→ What type of potatoes are best for this dish?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes hold up well when baked, offering creaminess and structure to the casserole.

→ Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?

Cream of mushroom or celery soup can be used if you prefer a different base or want a meat-free option.

→ How can I make the topping extra crispy?

Try adding breadcrumbs or extra shredded cheese on top before baking for a crunchy, golden finish.

→ Is this suitable for freezing?

Yes, assemble and freeze before baking for best results. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as needed.

→ Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Peas, carrots, or broccoli can be added for extra color and flavor. Mix them in with the other ingredients.