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This cheesy ham potato casserole combines tender diced potatoes and savory ham in a creamy cheesy sauce that bakes up golden and bubbling. It’s an easy recipe to make when you want a comforting, hearty dish perfect for sharing with family or friends.
I first made this casserole on a chilly weekend when life felt hectic. It quickly became my go-to for feeding a crowd with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Now it’s one of those reliable classics everyone requests again and again.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: Two pounds diced for a hearty base and tender texture. Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for creaminess or Yukon Gold for a buttery bite
- Yellow onion: Half a yellow onion diced to add subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce
- Cream of chicken soup: Ten point four ounces provides creamy richness without extra steps. Opt for a good-quality brand for the best flavor
- Cheddar cheese soup: Ten point four ounces makes the sauce cheesy and flavorful with ease
- Diced ham: Two cups contributes savory, smoky meatiness. Use diced fully cooked ham from your deli or leftover holiday ham
- Sour cream: Half a cup adds tang and smoothness to balance the richness
- Cheddar cheese: One cup shredded on top melts to a golden crust and enhances cheesiness
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, crucial seasoning to balance and elevate all the flavors
Instructions
- Scoop and Mix:
- Gather all your ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Start by adding diced potatoes and onions. Then scoop in both cream of chicken soup and cheddar cheese soup. Dollop in the sour cream and add the diced ham. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly so that the potatoes are evenly coated in the creamy cheesy mixture
- Prepare Baking Dish:
- Transfer your mixture carefully into a 7 by 13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that potatoes cook uniformly
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This layer will melt and brown in the oven creating a delicious crust
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the dish in an oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes. Check tenderness by piercing a potato cube with a fork. It should slide in easily and the top should be golden brown and bubbly
- Serve Hot:
- Once baked allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes. Serve warm for the best creamy texture and flavor enjoyment
Cheddar cheese is my favorite ingredient in this casserole because it melts so perfectly to create that irresistibly gooey, golden crust. One of my fondest memories with this dish is bringing it to potlucks where it always disappeared first. It truly feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Storage Tips
Store leftover casserole tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain creaminess. Avoid overcooking when reheating to keep the potatoes from drying out
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want a lighter version you can swap sour cream for plain Greek yogurt. Use turkey ham or leftover roasted chicken instead of ham for a different protein option. For a vegetarian twist omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms or smoked tofu
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. To add a fresh contrast serve with steamed green beans or roasted broccoli. Garlic bread is also lovely on the side to soak up extra sauce
This cheesy ham potato casserole is a comforting, easy crowd-pleaser that reheats well for meals ahead. Serve hot and enjoy the gooey golden crust.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of potatoes work best for this dish?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold hold up well during baking and absorb the creamy sauce nicely.
- → Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it in advance and refrigerate before baking. Add extra baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
- → Is it possible to substitute the ham for another protein?
Smoked turkey or cooked chicken can be used as alternatives for a different flavor profile.
- → What is the best way to ensure the potatoes cook evenly?
Cut potatoes into uniform dice and mix well with the sauce to promote even cooking through baking.
- → How do I achieve a golden cheesy crust on top?
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top before baking and bake until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.