Cheesy Ham Potato Casserole

Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe 🧀🥔🍖

This Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.

Ingredients

• 2 cups diced ham
• 4 cups diced potatoes (peeled if desired)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Mixture
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, potatoes, cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly coated.
3. Assemble the Casserole
   • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
   • Cover the dish with foil to retain moisture during baking.
4. Bake
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
5. Cool and Serve
   • Let the casserole cool slightly for about 5 minutes before serving.
   • Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

30 Popular Questions and Their Answers

General Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?
   Yes, reduce the baking time by about 15 minutes.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, assemble it and refrigerate overnight, then bake as instructed.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
4. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20–25 minutes or in the microwave until warm.
5. Is this dish gluten-free?
   Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup to make it gluten-free.

Ingredient Questions

6. Can I substitute the ham?
   Yes, cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage are great substitutes.
7. What type of potatoes work best?
   Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture.
8. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
   Yes, but freshly grated cheese melts better.
9. Can I use a different cheese?
   Yes, try mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for variety.
10. Can I use cream of chicken soup instead?
    Absolutely, it works just as well.

Preparation Questions

11. Should I peel the potatoes?
    It’s optional; leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients.
12. How small should I dice the potatoes?
    About 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking.
13. Do I need to cook the ham first?
    No, pre-cooked ham works perfectly.
14. Can I add onions or other vegetables?
    Yes, diced onions, bell peppers, or peas are great additions.
15. How do I ensure the potatoes cook evenly?
    Dice them evenly and cover the dish for the first part of baking.

Cooking Questions

16. What if my casserole is too runny?
    Bake uncovered longer to let the liquid reduce.
17. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
    Yes, cook on low for 4–5 hours or until the potatoes are tender.
18. Can I add breadcrumbs on top?
    Yes, for a crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top before baking.
19. Can I use a smaller baking dish?
    Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.
20. What if my cheese isn’t melting?
    Cover with foil for a few minutes to help it melt.

Serving Questions

21. What sides pair well with this casserole?
    A green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread are great options.
22. Can I serve this as a main dish?
    Yes, it’s hearty enough to be the main course.
23. Can I add a garnish?
    Yes, chopped parsley or green onions work well.
24. How many servings does this recipe make?
    It serves about 6–8 people.
25. Can I serve this for breakfast?
    Yes, add scrambled eggs for a breakfast casserole twist.

Storage Questions

26. How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?
    Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
27. Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
    Yes, assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before baking.
28. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
    Use an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap.
29. Can I double the recipe?
    Yes, use a larger dish or two smaller ones.
30. How do I prevent leftovers from drying out?
    Add a splash of milk when reheating to refresh the sauce.

30 Tips to Make Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole Even More Delightful

Ingredient Tips

1. Use smoked ham for a richer flavor.
2. Substitute sour cream for milk for extra creaminess.
3. Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
4. Mix in caramelized onions for sweetness.
5. Incorporate roasted garlic for depth.

Texture Enhancements

6. Add crushed potato chips or French-fried onions on top for crunch.
7. Stir in a dollop of cream cheese for added creaminess.
8. Use half-and-half instead of milk for a richer sauce.
9. Add a layer of shredded cheese on top for a gooey crust.
10. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese for a savory finish.

Flavor Boosters

11. Include fresh thyme or rosemary for an herby touch.
12. Add smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
13. Use pepper jack cheese for a hint of spice.
14. Mix in a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
15. Include diced green chiles for a Southwestern twist.

Preparation Tips

16. Parboil the potatoes to reduce baking time.
17. Line the baking dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
18. Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly uniform potatoes.
19. Prepare the casserole a day ahead to save time.
20. Let the dish rest after baking to allow the sauce to thicken.

Customization Ideas

21. Swap ham for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
22. Add frozen peas or carrots for extra veggies.
23. Top with crispy bacon for added indulgence.
24. Use sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
25. Try a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup for a GF version.

Serving Suggestions

26. Pair with a fresh fruit salad for balance.
27. Serve with warm rolls for a complete meal.
28. Offer hot sauce on the side for spice lovers.
29. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika for color.
30. Serve as a side dish for holiday dinners.

This Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for any meal! 🧀🥔🍖