This Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! A creamy mix of potatoes and ham, topped with gooey melted cheese, it’s perfect for dinner any night of the week.
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy goodness? I often make extra just so I can enjoy those yummy leftovers for lunch. You know what I mean! 😄
The best part? It’s super easy to throw together. Just layer your ingredients, pop it in the oven, and let it work its magic. Quick and delicious—what’s not to love?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Large russet potatoes are perfect for this dish due to their starchy texture. You can substitute them with Yukon Gold or red potatoes if that’s what you have. They’ll add a slightly different flavor and creaminess.
Cooked Ham: Diced ham is essential here, but leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey works great as alternatives. You could also use a vegetarian meat substitute or fresh veggies for a meatless option.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you’re looking for something milder, go for mild cheddar or even Monterey Jack. For a twist, try adding a bit of pepper jack for some heat.
Sour Cream: Sour cream adds a nice creaminess. Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute if you want a lighter option. Just remember, plain yogurt won’t be as tangy!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is a creamy base for the casserole. You can swap it with cream of chicken or even homemade mushroom sauce. If you’re avoiding canned soups altogether, try a mixture of heavy cream and sautéed mushrooms with some seasonings.
How Do I Get My Potatoes Cooked Perfectly for the Casserole?
Cooking the potatoes just right is key to a delicious casserole. You want them tender but not mushy, so they hold their shape. Here’s how to do it in a few simple steps:
- Peel and dice your potatoes into even-sized cubes. This helps them cook evenly.
- Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil, then add the diced potatoes.
- Cook them for about 10-12 minutes. Start checking for doneness around the 8-minute mark.
- You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily poke a fork into a piece, but they should still have a little firmness.
- Drain and let them cool a bit before mixing into your casserole.
Remember, the potatoes will continue to cook in the oven, so don’t overdo it! This technique gives you the best texture for your cheesy ham and potato casserole.
How to Make Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 1 cup additional shredded cheese for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes for preparation, plus 30-35 minutes for baking. In total, plan for around 50 minutes of your time to enjoy this comforting dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your casserole.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add your diced potatoes and cook them for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re tender but not mushy. You want them to hold their shape! Once they’re cooked, drain the potatoes and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, diced onion, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and milk. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy!
4. Combine with Potatoes:
Now it’s time to add those cooked potatoes! Gently fold them into the ham mixture until all the pieces are evenly coated. Be careful not to mash up the potatoes while you mix!
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Spray a 2-quart casserole dish with cooking spray or grease it lightly. Then, pour the potato and ham mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. If you love lots of cheese, sprinkle an extra cup of shredded cheese on top!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Put the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s hot and bubbly, and the top is golden brown. Yum!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve. Before you dig in, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your cheesy ham and potato casserole is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm and relish every cheesy, hearty bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Casserole?
Absolutely! You can use Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes if you prefer a sweeter flavor. Just remember that different potatoes may have slightly different cooking times, so adjust accordingly to ensure they are tender but not mushy before mixing.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version with sautéed mushrooms, heavy cream, and a bit of broth. Simply cook down the mushrooms and mix them with cream and seasoning until it thickens.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole before baking it. Just cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.
