Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole – Creamy, Golden & Family‑Friendly
Introduction
This Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Tender potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy mushroom sauce come together under a blanket of melted cheddar cheese. It’s a cozy, filling dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings when you want something warm and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple ingredients: Pantry staples and leftover ham make this easy.
Creamy & cheesy: A luscious sauce with plenty of melted cheddar.
Family favorite: Hearty, filling, and kid‑approved.
Versatile: Great as a main dish or side.
Ingredients
4 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet)
2 cups diced cooked ham
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Dried parsley or thyme, for topping
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a glass baking dish.
Step 2: Layer Potatoes & Ham
Add diced potatoes and ham to the dish, spreading evenly.
Step 3: Make Sauce
In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour over potatoes and ham.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Sprinkle 1½ cups shredded cheddar on top. Gently stir to combine, then smooth the surface. Add remaining cheese.
Step 5: Bake
Cover with foil and bake 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are tender and top is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with dried parsley or thyme. Let rest a few minutes before serving hot and creamy.
Tips & Tricks
Extra flavor: Add sautéed onions or bell peppers.
Creamier texture: Use half‑and‑half instead of milk.
Crispy topping: Add breadcrumbs mixed with butter before final bake.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days; reheat in oven for best texture.
Variations
Loaded Style: Add cooked bacon and green onions.
Veggie Boost: Mix in broccoli or peas.
Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack.
Holiday Version: Use leftover turkey instead of ham.
Serving Ideas
Serve with a fresh green salad for balance.
Pair with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Add roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Perfect for brunch buffets or potluck spreads.
FAQs
Q: Can I use raw potatoes?
Yes, but dice them small so they cook through.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze baked casserole up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and deeply comforting—a true family favorite that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect recipe to keep in your dinner rotation.