Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole Recipe

The Coziest Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe Ever

A comforting cheesy ham and potato casserole brings warmth to any dinner table with its creamy, satisfying layers.

Hearty ingredients meld together in a bubbling blend of savory goodness.

Classic comfort food never disappoints when you want something filling and delicious.

Melted cheese creates a golden crust that promises pure indulgence.

Crisp edges and soft interior make each bite a delightful experience.

Minimal preparation meets maximum flavor in this simple yet impressive dish.

One forkful will have you coming back for seconds, guaranteed.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole
  • Simplify Meal Prep: Skip complex cooking techniques with this straightforward ham and potato casserole that combines protein, vegetables, and creamy goodness in one delicious dish.
  • Create Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with rich flavors and satisfying textures, this casserole delivers a hearty meal that appeals to all ages, making it perfect for family gatherings or potluck events.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like different cheeses, meats, or add extra vegetables to personalize the recipe while maintaining its core deliciousness and simple preparation method.
  • Minimal Kitchen Cleanup: Using just a few bowls and a single baking dish, this recipe minimizes washing and reduces post-cooking kitchen mess, allowing more time to enjoy the meal with loved ones.

What You Need For Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole

For the Base Layer:
  • Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes create a hearty foundation for the casserole.
  • Ham: Diced ham provides a savory protein component to the dish.
For the Creamy Mixture:
  • Eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients and create a rich texture.
  • Heavy Cream, Milk, Sour Cream: These dairy ingredients produce a smooth and creamy base for the casserole.
For the Seasonings and Toppings:
  • Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder: These seasonings enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese adds a rich and melty layer to the casserole.
  • Breadcrumbs, Butter: Buttered breadcrumbs create a crispy and golden topping.
  • Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley provides a burst of color and fresh herb flavor.

Directions For Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole

Step 1: Heat the Oven and Prep Baking Dish

Turn the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to ensure nothing sticks during cooking.

Step 2: Create Potato Base

Arrange potato slices in an even layer across the bottom of the baking dish, creating a solid foundation for the casserole.

Step 3: Add Ham Layer

Spread diced ham evenly over the potato layer, distributing protein throughout the dish.

Step 4: Mix Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, blend together:
  • Eggs
  • Heavy cream
  • Milk
  • Sour cream

Whisk until the mixture becomes smooth and completely combined.

Step 5: Season the Sauce

Stir in seasonings to the cream mixture:
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder

Ensure the seasonings are thoroughly incorporated.

Step 6: Pour Cream Mixture

Drizzle the seasoned cream sauce over the ham and potato layers, allowing it to seep between potato slices.

Step 7: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously across the entire surface, creating a rich cheese layer.

Step 8: Prepare Crispy Topping

In a small bowl, mix melted butter with breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Step 9: Add Crunchy Breadcrumb Layer

Scatter the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese layer to create a crispy golden topping.

Step 10: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Look for tender potatoes and a golden brown, crispy top.

Step 11: Rest and Set

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes, allowing layers to set and cool slightly.

Step 12: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top to add a pop of color and fresh herb flavor before serving.

Smart Tips For Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole

Smart Tips For Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole
  • Prevent Potato Sticking: Generously grease the baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure easy removal and a clean serving experience.
  • Layer Evenly for Perfect Texture: Slice potatoes uniformly and distribute ham carefully to guarantee consistent cooking and balanced flavor in every bite.
  • Whisk Cream Mixture Thoroughly: Blend eggs, cream, milk, and sour cream until completely smooth to create a silky, well-integrated base that enhances the casserole's richness.
  • Boost Breadcrumb Crispiness: Fully coat breadcrumbs in melted butter before sprinkling to achieve a golden, crunchy topping that adds delightful texture to the dish.
  • Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to sit for 10 minutes after baking, which helps the layers set and makes cutting and serving much easier.

How To Switch Up Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole

  • Vegetarian Potato Bake: Replace ham with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a meat-free version packed with colorful nutrients.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Alternative: Swap potatoes with cauliflower florets to create a keto-friendly casserole that maintains the creamy, cheesy essence of the original recipe.
  • Mediterranean-Style Casserole: Incorporate feta cheese, spinach, and oregano instead of cheddar and ham, transforming the dish with Mediterranean flavors and ingredients.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and replace wheat-based ingredients with alternatives to make the casserole safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Pair Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole With These

  • Brighten with Crisp Salad: Toss a light mixed green salad with tangy vinaigrette to cut through the casserole's richness and add refreshing vegetable contrast.
  • Complement with Fruity White Wine: Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to balance the dish's creamy texture and salty ham notes with bright, acidic undertones.
  • Enhance with Roasted Vegetable Side: Prepare simple roasted asparagus or green beans with garlic and lemon to provide a fresh, tender vegetable accompaniment that adds nutrition and color.

How To Keep Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole Fresh

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator, maintaining delicious flavor and texture.
  • Wrap tightly in freezer-safe plastic wrap or container. Preserves well for up to 2 months. Freeze without breadcrumb topping to prevent sogginess.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover casserole with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated thoroughly, restoring crispy top and creamy interior.
  • Place individual portion on microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Adds moisture to prevent dryness and ensures even heating.

FAQs For Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole

  • Can I use a different type of meat instead of ham?

Yes, you can substitute ham with bacon, chicken, or even keep it vegetarian by using mushrooms or additional vegetables.

  • How do I know if the potatoes are cooked properly?

The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the top should be golden brown and crispy when fully baked.

  • Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the breadcrumb topping contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

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Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole Recipe

Cheesy Ham And Potato Casserole Recipe


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4.8 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comfort meets classic in this hearty cheesy ham and potato casserole, blending rich flavors with creamy textures. Layers of tender potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 2 cups diced ham
  • 4 large eggs

Potatoes and Dairy:

  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup sour cream

Seasonings and Extras:

  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform potato foundation.
  3. Distribute the diced ham uniformly over the potato layer, ensuring an even spread of protein throughout the casserole.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, and sour cream until smooth and well-integrated.
  5. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and garted garlic powder into the cream mixture, stirring to incorporate the seasonings thoroughly.
  6. Pour the creamy seasoned mixture over the ham and potato layers, making sure it seeps between the potato slices.
  7. Generously cover the entire surface with shredded cheddar cheese, creating a rich and golden cheese blanket.
  8. In a separate small bowl, combine melted butter with breadcrumbs, mixing until the crumbs are completely coated.
  9. Evenly scatter the buttered breadcrumbs across the cheese layer, providing a crispy and golden topping.
  10. Transfer the casserole to the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and crispy.
  11. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes to allow the layers to set and cool slightly.
  12. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving, adding a burst of color and fresh herb flavor.

Notes

  • Slice potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the casserole.
  • Use high-quality ham like Black Forest or smoked varieties to enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
  • Control moisture by patting potato slices dry with paper towels, preventing excess liquid and maintaining a crisp texture.
  • For gluten-free adaptation, replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour to maintain the crunchy topping.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 497
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 908 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 17 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 33 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 171 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

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