Cheesy Ham Potato Casserole

Cheesy ham potato casserole brings together comforting flavors of tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and plenty of gooey cheese. This simple baked dish transforms basic ingredients into something the whole table will love and is perfect for family gatherings or when you need a budget-friendly main. The savory aroma as it bakes never fails to draw everyone to the kitchen.

I first baked this casserole after a holiday when I had leftover ham and it quickly became our top comfort food request. My nephew even asks for it on his birthday every year.

Ingredients

• Potatoes diced: these create the comforting base and soak in all the creamy sauce. Choose russet or Yukon Gold for the best texture
• Yellow onion diced: adds subtle sweetness and savor. Go for a firm onion without any soft spots for the freshest flavor
• Cream of chicken soup: gives a creamy backbone. Pick a brand with fewer additives for a richer taste
• Cheddar cheese soup: boosts that cheesy richness throughout every bite. If you want deeper flavor try aged cheddar soup if you find it
• Diced ham: adds salty meaty bites. Use leftovers from a roast or pick up a good-quality thick deli ham for more flavor
• Sour cream: brings tang and helps the sauce stay smooth. Full-fat gives the best texture here
• Cheddar cheese shredded: crowns the top and melts to a bubbly golden finish. For shredding choose a block of sharp cheddar over pre-shredded for an oozy melt
• Salt and black pepper: a must for bringing everything into balance. Taste before baking so the seasoning is right

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep and Mix:

Dice the potatoes and onions evenly to ensure even cooking. In a large mixing bowl combine potatoes onion cream of chicken soup cheddar cheese soup sour cream and ham. Add salt and pepper and mix everything until potatoes are well coated and everything is combined thoroughly for consistent flavor in every bite

Transfer to Pan:

Lightly grease a 7x13 inch baking dish to avoid sticking. Spread the mixture evenly into the dish and press down gently to level the top ensuring the potatoes bake evenly

Add the Cheese Topping:

Scatter the shredded cheddar cheese over the entire surface. Try to cover every part so you get a bit of melted cheese with each scoop

Bake Until Golden and Bubbly:

Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Check that the potatoes are fork-tender all the way through and the top is bubbling with patches of golden cheese

Serve Hot:

Let the casserole cool for five to ten minutes before serving so it sets slightly for easier scooping. Dig in while it is piping hot for the best texture

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The cheddar cheese is my favorite part as it forms the tastiest golden crust on top. My favorite memory is sharing this dish at a Sunday potluck with family as we all gathered for second helpings sometimes straight from the pan

Storage Tips

Once cooled store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat scoop portions into a microwave-safe bowl and warm gently stirring midway. If you want to re-crisp the cheese topping reheat in an oven-safe dish uncovered for ten to fifteen minutes at 350 degrees

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have cream of chicken soup use condensed cream of mushroom or even cream of celery. You can swap cheddar cheese soup for extra shredded cheese mixed with a bit of milk. Smoked turkey or chicken works beautifully in place of ham for a lighter version

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Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to balance the richness. This casserole also pairs well with homemade rolls or crusty bread perfect for soaking up every drop of creamy sauce

Cultural Context

Casseroles like this became staples in American kitchens for their convenience and heartiness. During the mid-twentieth century budget-friendly canned soups and leftovers were commonly transformed into one-dish meals ideal for post-holiday gatherings or weeknight stretching

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use leftover ham for this dish?

Yes, leftover ham works perfectly and adds great flavor and texture to the casserole.

→ What type of potatoes work best?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes offer a tender, hearty texture once baked and pair well with the creamy sauce.

→ Can this bake be assembled ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the mixture ahead, cover, refrigerate, and bake it fresh when ready to serve.

→ Can I substitute a different cheese?

Yes, you can use Monterey Jack, Swiss, or a blend for a different cheese profile if desired.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat portions gently in the oven or microwave.