Cheesy Ham and Hashbrown Casserole

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes warm the heart quite like a casserole. This Cheesy Ham and Hashbrown Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it the epitome of home cooking. It brings together the richness of cheddar cheese, the savory goodness of cooked ham, and the crispy texture of hashbrowns, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this casserole is sure to impress and satisfy, making it a must-try recipe.

The key components of this dish are truly what make it special. With 2 cups of diced cooked ham, you’ll find the saltiness from the ham balances perfectly with the creamy textures provided by 1 cup of sour cream and a 10.5 oz can of cream of chicken soup. The 3 cups of frozen hashbrowns add an enjoyable crunch, while 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese give that rich, gooey experience we all crave in a casserole. A slight kick from half a cup of diced onion rounds off the flavor profile beautifully, making every bite a delightful experience.

Making this casserole is astoundingly easy, perfect for anyone who may not want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, in a large mixing bowl, simply combine the diced ham, frozen hashbrowns, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced onion, milk, and season with salt and pepper. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish, then bake it for 45 minutes to an hour, until it’s bubbling and golden brown on top. Finally, allow a few minutes for it to cool before serving. It truly doesn’t get simpler than that!

This casserole really shines during chilly nights when you crave something hearty or as a reliable dish for potlucks. Imagine serving this up to family gathered around for a cozy dinner or bringing it to a friend’s gathering. It’s a comforting meal that brings people together, making it perfect for countless occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ham and Hashbrown Casserole

• Quick prep time: This recipe comes together quickly, making it easy for anyone to prepare.
• Simple ingredients: With familiar and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip this up without special trips to the store.
• Comfort food: It provides that cozy, heartwarming feeling that only a good casserole can bring.
• Versatile: This dish is great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Enjoy it any time of the day!
• Fantastic for leftovers: Any extra servings can be a delicious treat the next day, making it practical for meal planning.

Diced Ham Tips

When it comes to choosing ham for this casserole, look for fully cooked ham that is already diced. This saving of time is ideal for busy cooks. If you’re unsure about how much salt it brings, consider that you will be adding salt and pepper to the mix. For a more smokey flavor, you might also consider using smoked ham, which can elevate the taste of the casserole significantly. Be sure to taste if you opt for a saltier variety; it really helps in grabbing that perfect flavor balance.

Options for Substitutions

• Chicken instead of ham: Swap in cooked, shredded chicken for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian version: Replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables.
• Different cheese: Use mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor experience.
• Cauliflower hashbrowns: If you want a lower-carb option, try cauliflower-based hashbrowns.
• Greek yogurt: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist with extra protein.
• Cream of mushroom soup: Use this instead of cream of chicken to cater to vegetarians.

Watch Out for These Mistakes

One common pitfall when making casseroles is overcooking. Keep an eye on your dish as it bakes; ovens can vary in their temperature. You want it bubbly and golden brown, not dried out. Also, be mindful of your seasoning. It’s easy to overlook the salt and pepper, but tasting the mixture before baking can save you from bland bites.

Don’t add frozen hashbrowns directly to the baking dish without mixing them well with the ingredients first. This can lead to some sections being overly dry and others too soggy. If you do want some texture, consider layering them at the top. Finally, allowing it to cool for a few minutes is essential before serving. This resting time lets the dish set, making serving much easier and allowing flavors to mingle beautifully.

What to Serve With Cheesy Ham and Hashbrown Casserole?

To complement this casserole, consider serving a fresh garden salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to brighten the meal. Steamed green beans seasoned with a hint of butter and garlic make a wonderful side that adds color and crunch. For a more hearty option, a crusty piece of bread would be delightful for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Storage Instructions

Store: Keep leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freeze: You can freeze this casserole for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in both plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

Reheat: For stovetop reheating, place the casserole in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to keep it moist. If using a microwave, cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.

Recipe Info

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: About 6-8 servings

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
Calories: 2,000 – 2,400
Protein: 150 – 180g
Fat: 100 – 130g
Carbohydrates: 160 – 180g

Ingredients

• 2 cups diced cooked ham
• 3 cups frozen hashbrowns
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, take a moment to grease your casserole dish. This will help your casserole brown nicely and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients in a Bowl

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cooked ham, frozen hashbrowns, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced onion, and milk. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Pour Into The Casserole Dish

Once mixed, pour the entire mixture into the greased casserole dish. Spread it evenly to ensure uniform cooking. This helps all parts of the casserole cook through at the same rate.

Step 4: Bake in the Oven

Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Keep an eye out for that bubbly consistency and a beautiful golden-brown hue on the surface.

Step 5: Let Cool Before Serving

When done, remove the casserole from the oven. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes; this resting period helps it set and makes serving a breeze.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon generous helpings onto plates and enjoy the delicious warmth of your Cheesy Ham and Hashbrown Casserole. Don’t forget to share with family and friends!

In conclusion, this Cheesy Ham and Hashbrown Casserole is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. With its easy preparation, comforting flavors, and versatile possibilities, it’s perfect for any occasion. I invite you to try this casserole today, make it your own, and share your thoughts with us! Dive into other flavorful recipes on our blog; there’s always something new to discover.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover it well.

How can I make it healthier?

Consider using low-fat cheese, sour cream, or substituting vegetables for some of the ham. You can also use whole grain products for a healthier twist.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, this casserole freezes quite well. Just ensure it is wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn, and it will keep for 2-3 months.

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