Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite
Warm up your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of this Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole—a hearty, cheesy dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner. This all-in-one meal combines crispy hash browns, tender diced ham, and a melty blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, all baked together with a creamy, flavorful base. Topped with a crunchy cornflake or breadcrumb layer (if you choose), this casserole is a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or prepping a make-ahead meal for the week, this recipe is a comforting classic with a modern twist.
This dish is a fantastic way to use leftover ham, turning it into a satisfying meal that’s both simple and delicious. The creamy soup and sour cream create a rich sauce that binds the ingredients, while the seasonings add just the right amount of flavor. Let’s walk through the steps to create this crowd-pleasing casserole in your own home!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these wholesome ingredients to craft your Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole:
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash browns, thawed (shredded or diced, depending on your texture preference)
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced (leftover holiday ham or deli ham works wonderfully)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp for a bold taste or mild for a subtler flavor)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for that perfect stretchy melt)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (about ½ cup, for a hint of sweetness and crunch)
- ¼ cup butter, melted (for richness and to help crisp the potatoes)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a variation)
- ½ cup sour cream (for creaminess and a slight tang)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for a savory depth)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (to enhance the onion flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (adjust based on the saltiness of your ham)
- ½ cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when your casserole is assembled. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. This size is ideal for serving 8-10 people, but you can use a slightly smaller dish if you prefer a thicker casserole—just adjust the baking time slightly.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the thawed hash browns, diced ham, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and chopped onion. Pour in the melted butter, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Using a sturdy spoon or spatula, mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. The creamy soup and sour cream will coat the hash browns and ham, creating a luscious base, while the cheeses begin to meld into the mixture.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with the back of your spoon or a spatula. Press it down gently to ensure it bakes uniformly. If you’re using the optional topping, sprinkle the crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs evenly over the top. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy interior—perfect for texture lovers!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and prevent the top from browning too quickly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After this initial bake, remove the foil to allow the top to crisp up and the cheese to bubble. Return the casserole to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is hot and bubbly. Keep an eye on it toward the end to avoid over-browning the topping.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This brief cooling period helps the dish set, making it easier to cut and serve without falling apart. Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy this hearty dish as a satisfying breakfast, a comforting dinner, or a standout side at your next gathering.
Tips for the Best Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
- Customize It: Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra veggies, or swap the ham for cooked sausage or bacon for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with different cheese blends, like Monterey Jack or Swiss.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time to account for the cold start.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
- Topping Twist: For a richer topping, mix the crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter before sprinkling them on.
- Freezing Option: This casserole freezes well! Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Nutritional Highlights
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal per serving (based on 8-10 servings)
- Servings: 8-10
This recipe is hearty enough to be a main dish but light enough to pair with a fresh salad or steamed veggies. The calorie count may vary depending on portion size and optional toppings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending the crispy goodness of hash browns with the savory richness of ham and cheese. It’s a versatile dish that works for any meal of the day, making it ideal for busy mornings, lazy weekends, or holiday brunches. The optional crunchy topping adds a satisfying contrast, while the creamy base keeps every bite moist and flavorful. Plus, its make-ahead and freezer-friendly nature makes it a lifesaver for meal planning.
Try this Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole and let us know how you enjoyed it! What’s your favorite casserole twist? Share your ideas in the comments—we’d love to hear your creative takes on this recipe!
