Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy casserole straight out of the oven, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. If you’re looking for the perfect comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, then this Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is for you. This dish is a combination of crispy hash browns, savory ham, and gooey cheese, all mixed together in a creamy sauce that bakes to golden perfection.
Whether you’re making it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover ham. This recipe is simple, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a hungry family or serving at gatherings. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and explore different ways to customize it to your liking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups diced ham (great for using up leftovers!)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Topping (For Extra Crunch):
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Hash browns
- Diced ham
- Shredded cheese
- Cream of chicken soup
- Sour cream
- Milk
- Melted butter
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping (Optional)
If you love a crunchy topping, mix crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, then sprinkle over the casserole.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and golden brown on top.
Step 6: Let It Rest & Serve
Allow the casserole to sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to scoop out portions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: No fancy techniques or complicated ingredients.
- Great for Leftovers: A delicious way to use up extra ham.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, potlucks, or even dinner.
- Customizable: You can swap ingredients and add your favorite flavors.
Variations & Substitutions
1. Swap the Meat
While ham is classic, you can easily switch it up with:
- Crispy bacon (for a smoky flavor)
- Cooked breakfast sausage (for a hearty twist)
- Shredded chicken (if you want a non-pork option)
2. Change the Cheese
Cheddar is delicious, but try:
- Monterey Jack (for a milder flavor)
- Swiss (for a creamy touch)
- Pepper Jack (for a spicy kick!)
3. Add Some Veggies
Make it healthier by adding:
- Diced bell peppers
- Chopped onions
- Sliced mushrooms
- Spinach or kale
4. Make It Spicy
If you love heat, add:
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
- Chopped jalapeños
- A few dashes of hot sauce in the mixture
What to Serve with Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
This casserole is hearty on its own, but it pairs well with:
- Fresh fruit (like melon, berries, or oranges)
- Scrambled or fried eggs
- Toast or biscuits
- A side salad for a lighter touch
Storage & Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: This casserole freezes well! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
Can You Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. The next morning, just bake it as directed—perfect for holiday mornings or meal prep.
Final Thoughts
This Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is a warm, cheesy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a casual family breakfast or serving it at a holiday gathering, it’s sure to be a hit.
So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking! 😊