Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy, and hearty casserole to bring people together. Whether it’s a lazy weekend brunch, a holiday gathering, or a simple weeknight dinner, casseroles have a special way of making any meal feel comforting and satisfying. Today, we’re sharing a classic Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole recipe that is packed with flavor, super easy to make, and guaranteed to be a family favorite.
This dish is the perfect combination of crispy hash browns, savory ham, melty cheese, and a rich, creamy sauce that ties everything together. It’s great for using up leftover ham, making it a fantastic post-holiday dish. Plus, it requires minimal prep, so you can have a delicious meal ready to go in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: Just mix, bake, and enjoy!
- Great for meal prep: Make it ahead and reheat throughout the week.
- Crowd-pleaser: Everyone from kids to adults loves this cheesy goodness.
- Customizable: You can swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious casserole, you’ll need:
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, diced ham, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and chopped onions. Stir everything together until well mixed.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In another bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This sauce is what makes the casserole so creamy and flavorful.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour the creamy sauce over the hash brown mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing out the top so it bakes evenly.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, sprinkle with paprika for a little extra color and flavor.
Tips for the Best Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
- Use high-quality cheese – Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
- Don’t skip the sour cream – It adds the perfect amount of creaminess and tang.
- Make it extra crispy – If you love a crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Let it rest – Giving the casserole a few minutes to set makes it easier to serve.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this casserole is how customizable it is! Here are some ways you can switch it up:
- Use different cheese: Try swapping cheddar for Colby Jack, Gouda, or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.
- Add veggies: Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms add extra nutrition and flavor.
- Swap the protein: Instead of ham, try cooked bacon, sausage, or even shredded chicken.
- Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Try a crunchy topping: Sprinkle crushed cornflakes, Ritz crackers, or panko breadcrumbs on top before baking for extra crunch.
Storing & Reheating Instructions
This casserole is great for leftovers and meal prepping!
To Store:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly with foil and place in a freezer-safe bag.
To Reheat:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge overnight. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Can I Make This Without Cream of Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! You can make a homemade version using a roux (butter, flour, and milk) mixed with some chicken broth.
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Yes, but you’ll need to shred and squeeze out excess moisture from the potatoes before using them to prevent a soggy casserole.
What to Serve with Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but here are some great pairings:
- Fresh fruit salad – Adds a refreshing balance.
- Scrambled eggs – Perfect for a hearty breakfast.
- Side salad – A simple green salad adds freshness.
- Biscuits or toast – Great for soaking up any extra sauce.
Final Thoughts
Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, loaded with flavor, and guaranteed to be a hit with your family and friends. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this casserole is a satisfying and delicious option that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Try this recipe out and let us know how it turns out! Have any favorite variations? Share them in the comments below. Happy cooking!