When the chill of autumn sets in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty meal to bring everyone together. I found myself hunting for a comforting dish one evening, reminiscing over my childhood favorites. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of creating a Ham and Potato Casserole. With layers of tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy mushroom soup, this dish is the quintessential cozy comfort food that elevates any weeknight dinner into something special.
The beauty of this casserole lies not only in its delightful flavors but also in its remarkably simple preparation. There’s something magical about the way the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden crust, inviting everyone to gather at the table. And the best part? It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ham while providing a filling meal that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. So preheat your oven, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get ready to create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why You'll Love This Ham and Potato Casserole
- This Ham and Potato Casserole is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- The rich and creamy flavors of the dish come together beautifully, making it a satisfying meal that warms the heart.
- Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Visually, the golden crust topped with melted cheese is sure to impress your family and guests alike, making it a standout centerpiece at any gathering.
Ham and Potato Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
• Diced ham – a great way to use up leftovers for a flavorful punch.
• Russet potatoes – they hold their shape and provide a hearty base.
• Cream of mushroom soup – this creamy staple adds rich flavor and ties the dish together.
• Whole milk – helps to create a smooth and velvety texture in the casserole.
• Grated sharp cheddar cheese – adds a deliciously gooey topping that everyone will love.
• Diced onion – brings sweetness and depth to the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic powder – enhances the dish with savory notes without the chopping hassle.
• Dried thyme – imparts a fragrant herbal flavor that complements the ham beautifully.
• Salt and pepper – essential seasonings to balance the flavors of your Ham and Potato Casserole.
Optional Toppings
• Chopped parsley – a fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor.
• Additional cheese – sprinkle some more on top for an extra cheesy delight!
How to Make Ham and Potato Casserole
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks and your casserole comes out perfectly!
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Mix the cream of mushroom soup with whole milk in a large bowl until smooth. Add the garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper to season it all beautifully.
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Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the greased baking dish. Follow this with half of the diced ham and half of the creamy soup mixture. Repeat the layers until you’ve used all the ingredients.
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Top your layered casserole with grated cheddar cheese for that irresistible gooey finish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in! Bake for 45 minutes.
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Uncover the casserole and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to let all those flavors settle.
Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Ham and Potato Casserole?
When you’re looking to complement this savory casserole, find those delightful side dishes that will round out your meal into a cozy feast.
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Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread is the perfect contrast to the creamy casserole, offering a delightful texture contrast. Dip it into the delicious sauce for an unforgettable experience.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds a fresh and nutritious touch to your meal. Its crisp tenderness serves to balance the richness of the casserole, creating a wholesome plate.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, zesty dressing, and crunchy croutons make this salad a refreshing option. It cuts through the creaminess and enhances your dining with a delightful crunch.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of glazed carrots complements the savory ham beautifully. Their vibrant color and fork-tender texture will bring joy to your plate.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw with its crunchy cabbage and creamy dressing is a refreshing side that pairs excellently with the hearty casserole, adding a pop of acidity to balance the flavors.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized and slightly crispy, these sprouts add an earthy depth to your meal. Their slight bitterness contrasts nicely with the rich, savory casserole.
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Apple Pie: End on a sweet note with a classic apple pie. The warm spices and tender apples create a comforting finale that ties your cozy dinner experience together.
With these pairings, your Ham and Potato Casserole will shine even brighter, making your dining experience truly special!
How to Store and Freeze Ham and Potato Casserole
Room Temperature: Store leftover Ham and Potato Casserole at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Fridge: Keep any uneaten casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat your casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, covered with foil, ensuring it’s heated thoroughly and the cheese is melty again.
Make Ahead Options
These Ham and Potato Casserole preparations are perfect for busy weeknights, letting you save time while enjoying a homemade meal! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance by layering all the ingredients in the baking dish, covering it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerating. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the plastic wrap, cover it with aluminum foil, and pop it in the oven. If prepared ahead, it may take an additional 10-15 minutes of baking time, so keep an eye on that delicious golden crust! This way, you can serve a warm and comforting dish with minimal effort, just as tasty as if you made it fresh!
Ham and Potato Casserole Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own masterpiece!
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Cheddar Swap: Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile to new heights.
Swap out the cheddar and embrace the warmth of pepper jack for a cozy, cheesy makeover. -
Vegetable Boost: Add in steamed broccoli or spinach for an extra boost of nutrients and color.
The vibrancy of greens brings not only health benefits but also a delightful contrast to the creamy layers. -
Gluten-Free: Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a gluten-free version or make your own from scratch.
Enjoy all the comforting goodness without the gluten—perfect for those with dietary restrictions! -
Lower-Fat Option: Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese to keep the comfort without all the calories.
You won’t miss the rich flavor while still enjoying every mouthful of this hearty dish. -
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for a fragrant twist that enhances the overall flavor.
Fresh herbs can brighten up the casserole and lend a gourmet touch to your home-cooked meal. -
Bacon Addition: Enhance the flavor by adding crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch that complements the ham.
Because who doesn’t love the smoky goodness of crispy bacon mingling with layers of cheese and potatoes? -
Mushroom Medley: Mix in sautéed mushrooms for added texture and a delicious depth of flavor.
This simple addition transforms your casserole into a savory mushroom delight that pairs wonderfully with ham. -
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
A touch of spice introduces a zest that’ll keep your taste buds tingling with excitement.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Ham and Potato Casserole, ensure your potatoes are evenly sliced to guarantee they cook uniformly throughout the baking process.
- A common mistake is not mixing the soup and milk well enough, so take the time to whisk until fully combined for a smoother sauce.
- When layering the casserole, pressing down gently on each layer helps the flavors meld together more effectively.
- Make sure to remove the foil during the last 15 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to develop a beautifully golden, crispy top.
Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe FAQs
What kind of potatoes should I use for the Ham and Potato Casserole?
For this casserole, I recommend using russet potatoes since they hold their shape well and provide a hearty texture. If you prefer, Yukon Gold potatoes are another great option, as they add a buttery flavor, but just be sure to slice them thinly for even cooking.
How should I store leftovers of Ham and Potato Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re reheating, simply pop a portion in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For longer storage, let’s talk about freezing!
Can I freeze Ham and Potato Casserole? How?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
What should I do if my casserole is too dry?
If you find your Ham and Potato Casserole is too dry after baking, ensure you’re mixing the cream of mushroom soup and milk thoroughly before layering. Additionally, consider adding a splash of broth or additional milk during the initial mix. If you catch it early, you can also drizzle a bit of milk on top before serving to moisten things up.
Are there any dietary considerations I need to keep in mind with this recipe?
Yes! If you’re serving this dish to guests or family members with food allergies, be mindful of gluten since the cream of mushroom soup can contain gluten. Opt for a gluten-free soup alternative if needed. Additionally, the dish is not suitable for vegans, but you can substitute the ham with a plant-based alternative, and swap the dairy products with non-dairy versions.
How can I customize my Ham and Potato Casserole?
The more the merrier! You can add in vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or even bell peppers for an additional flavor and nutrition boost. Mixing in different types of cheese, such as monterey jack or mozzarella, can also elevate the dish. Just remember to keep your layers balanced for best results!
Ham and Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks and your casserole comes out perfectly!
- Mix the cream of mushroom soup with whole milk in a large bowl until smooth. Add the garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper to season it all beautifully.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the greased baking dish. Follow this with half of the diced ham and half of the creamy soup mixture. Repeat the layers until you've used all the ingredients.
- Top your layered casserole with grated cheddar cheese for that irresistible gooey finish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in! Bake for 45 minutes.
- Uncover the casserole and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to let all those flavors settle.
- Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
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