Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole

When you are craving comfort food that reminds you of weekend brunches and holiday gatherings this cheesy ham and potato casserole hits all the right notes Richly flavorful and easy to assemble it is my go to for using up leftover ham and getting a crowd pleasing dinner on the table with minimal fuss The creamy filling golden cornflake topping and toasty edges are irresistible every single time

My family always asks for seconds and when I brought it to a brunch potluck last spring it was the first dish to disappear

Ingredients

• Frozen hash browns thawed: Four cups provide the potato base for the casserole Make sure they are thawed so everything bakes evenly
• Cooked ham diced: Two cups add savory flavor and a hearty bite Use good quality ham or leftovers from a baked ham
• Cream of chicken soup: One can makes the filling rich and creamy Choose a variety with simple ingredients for best taste
• Sour cream: One cup for tang and smooth texture Full fat works best
• Shredded cheddar cheese: One cup melted throughout for bold cheesy flavor Use sharp cheddar for extra punch
• Chopped onion: Half a cup adds sweetness and aroma Look for firm white or yellow onions
• Melted butter: Quarter cup helps bind the topping and adds flavor Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning
• Crushed cornflakes: Half a cup for crunch and buttery texture on top Use fresh cornflakes that are crisp and not stale
• Salt and pepper: Enhance the flavors Add carefully since ham and soup can be salty

Instructions

Mix the Casserole Base:

In a large mixing bowl combine thawed hash browns ham cream of chicken soup sour cream shredded cheddar cheese and chopped onion Use a large spoon to blend really well and make sure every bite will have plenty of flavor from the ham and cheese

Season and Finish the Filling:

Sprinkle in salt and black pepper carefully Taste the mixture before baking since the ham and soup bring their own saltiness Stir well so the seasoning is even

Assemble the Casserole:

Grease a large casserole dish with a bit of melted butter or use a spray for easy cleanup Spoon the potato mixture into the dish and press it into an even layer You want a smooth surface for the topping

Make the Crunchy Topping:

In a separate small bowl combine crushed cornflakes with the melted butter Mix until every crumb is coated The butter brings out the toastiness of the cornflakes

Top and Bake:

Scatter the buttered cornflakes in an even layer over the casserole Place the dish in a preheated 350 degree oven Bake for thirty to thirty five minutes until the top turns golden and it is bubbling at the edges

Rest and Serve:

Take the casserole out and let it cool for a few minutes This helps it set up a bit before you scoop and serve Dig in while it is still warm and gooey

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Cheddar is my favorite ingredient here because it melts to a perfect gooey layer that pulls everyone back for seconds One winter my little cousin helped me scatter the cornflakes on top and we laughed every time a crumb missed the pan Moments like that turn simple casseroles into family traditions and warm memories

Storage tips

Once the casserole has cooled completely cover it tightly with foil or a lid and refrigerate It keeps well for up to three days For longer storage cut the casserole into portions wrap well and freeze To reheat use a covered dish at three hundred twenty five degrees until hot through for the best texture

Ingredient substitutions

If you do not have hash browns you can peel and shred russet potatoes just pat dry to avoid extra moisture Turkey or diced cooked chicken works well instead of ham Mix up the cheese with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor If cornflakes are out of reach try buttered breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers on top

Serving suggestions

Pile the casserole onto plates with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for balance For breakfast it pairs perfectly with scrambled eggs At brunch I sometimes tuck in steamed broccoli or frozen peas for extra color and nutrition

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This casserole is a staple in many Midwestern homes and brings pure comfort to gatherings and celebrations Enjoy every creamy cheesy bite

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, you can substitute fresh potatoes—just peel, dice, and parboil them until slightly tender before adding.

→ What can I use instead of ham?

Cooked chicken, turkey, or even roasted vegetables work as savory swaps for the ham.

→ Is there a substitute for cream of chicken soup?

Homemade white sauce or condensed cream of mushroom soup can be used if preferred.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Transfer cooled casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead?

You can assemble the dish (except topping) a day ahead and refrigerate. Add cornflake topping just before baking.