🧀 Ham and Potato Casserole: A Hearty Classic for Any Meal

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the creamy, cheesy, and savory allure of Ham and Potato Casserole. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, using up leftover ham, or just craving something cozy and satisfying, this classic casserole is your golden ticket.

Perfectly diced ham and tender potatoes come together in a rich, cheesy sauce that’s baked until bubbly and golden. It’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and incredibly versatile—equally at home on a holiday table or as a humble weeknight dinner.

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💡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients – Mostly pantry staples and fridge basics.
• Make-ahead friendly – Prepares beautifully in advance for busy schedules.
• Customizable – Add veggies or swap in different cheeses.
• Crowd-pleaser – Kids and adults alike devour it.

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🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe stays true to the traditional style while allowing flexibility for personal touches.

• Ham – Diced, fully cooked ham (leftover holiday ham works great).
• Potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold, peeled and diced. Parboiling or roasting beforehand improves texture.
• Cheddar Cheese – For that gooey, melty comfort. Sharp cheddar is most common, but a cheddar blend works well too.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Adds creaminess and flavor without making a roux from scratch.
• Sour Cream – Helps create the creamy base and a slight tang.
• Milk – Just enough to loosen the sauce.
• Butter – Adds richness.
• Salt & Pepper – To season throughout.
• Optional toppings – Crushed Ritz crackers, breadcrumbs, or even crispy bacon crumbles.

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make the Perfect Ham and Potato Casserole

1. Prep the ingredients:
Peel and dice your potatoes into bite-sized chunks. If you’re in a hurry, frozen diced hash browns are an acceptable shortcut.

2. Par-cook the potatoes:
Boil for about 5-7 minutes or roast until fork-tender. This ensures they’ll be soft and fully cooked after baking.

3. Mix the filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine diced ham, potatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, melted butter, and seasonings. Stir everything together until evenly coated.

4. Assemble the casserole:
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.

5. Add toppings:
Sprinkle with more shredded cheese and, if using, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a crispy top.

6. Bake:
Bake uncovered in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 45–50 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

7. Rest & serve:
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to firm up slightly.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This casserole is rich and creamy, so pairing it with a fresh element balances the meal. Here are some great pairings:

• Side Salad – A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette.
• Steamed Veggies – Broccoli, green beans, or peas work beautifully.
• Bread Rolls – For soaking up every last bit of sauce.
• Fruit Salad – Adds a sweet contrast to the savory casserole.

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🧠 Tips for Success

• Cheese matters: Use block cheese and shred it yourself for better melting and less graininess.
• Customize the flavor: Add chopped green onions, garlic powder, or paprika.
• Make it lighter: Use low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese, or swap some potatoes with cauliflower.
• Make it richer: Add cream cheese or a second type of cheese like Monterey Jack.
• Batch cook & freeze: You can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole for up to 2 months.

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🔁 Variations to Try

• Breakfast Casserole: Add scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage.
• Veggie Style: Mix in broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Southwest Twist: Add green chilies, taco seasoning, and pepper jack cheese.
• Italian Flair: Use mozzarella, oregano, and sun-dried tomatoes.

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🧊 Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions or whole; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Microwave individual portions or reheat covered in a 350°F oven until hot.

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