This Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole is like the ultimate comfort food for any time of day—breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
It’s loaded with tender potatoes, savory ham, melty cheddar cheese, and a creamy, ranch-flavored sauce that ties it all together.
The best part? It’s super easy to make with simple ingredients, making it a go-to dish that’s both satisfying and family-approved.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
- Simple and Convenient: Using frozen diced potatoes and a handful of pantry staples, this recipe comes together quickly with minimal prep.
- Customizable: Add extra veggies, swap cheeses, or adjust seasonings to make it your own.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a holiday brunch, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake or reheat when needed, making it ideal for busy schedules.
Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe
For this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ham, diced: Provides a salty, savory protein base.
- 1 (28-ounce) bag frozen diced potatoes, thawed: Tender potatoes that soak up all the creamy flavors.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and depth to the casserole.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and richness to the dish.
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter: Enhances the overall flavor and adds moisture.
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded and divided: A sharp, cheesy topping that ties the casserole together.
- ½ cup green onions, chopped: Adds a mild onion flavor and freshness.
- 1½ tablespoons ranch dressing mix: Infuses the casserole with a tangy, herby flavor.
- Bacon bits (for topping): Crispy bacon pieces for added crunch and flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: For seasoning.
Optional Add-Ons
- 1 cup broccoli florets: Add for extra nutrition and a pop of color.
- ½ cup diced bell peppers: For a sweet and crunchy addition.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or melted butter and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, and ranch dressing mix. Stir until smooth and well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste, but remember the ham and cheese are naturally salty, so season lightly.
Step 3: Add the Main Ingredients
Fold in the diced ham, thawed potatoes, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently to ensure the potatoes and ham are evenly coated in the creamy mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the potato and ham mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top for a melty, golden crust.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top.
Step 6: Add the Toppings
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle bacon bits and chopped green onions over the top for added flavor and texture. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to let the toppings warm through.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. This brief resting time helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to slice.
Crockpot Method for Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole
If you prefer a hands-off approach, this recipe can easily be adapted for the Crockpot. Here’s how to prepare it:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Dice the ham into bite-sized pieces and thaw the frozen diced potatoes. Chop the green onions and measure out all other ingredients, including shredding the cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, and ranch dressing mix. Stir well until the mixture is smooth. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, keeping in mind that the ham and cheese will add additional saltiness.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole in the Crockpot
Lightly grease the inside of your Crockpot with non-stick spray or a small amount of melted butter.
- Spread half of the thawed potatoes evenly on the bottom of the Crockpot.
- Add half of the diced ham on top of the potatoes.
- Pour half of the creamy mixture over the ham and potatoes, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the creamy layer.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, creamy mixture, and 1 more cup of cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Cook the Casserole
Cover the Crockpot with the lid and set it to Low for 4-5 hours or High for 2-3 hours. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this releases heat and slows down the cooking process.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
About 20-30 minutes before the cooking time is complete, sprinkle the bacon bits and chopped green onions over the top. If you prefer a cheesier topping, add an additional ½ cup of cheddar cheese during this step. Cover and let cook until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is finished cooking, turn off the Crockpot and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Use a large spoon to scoop out portions, ensuring you get a bit of every layer in each serving.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to create a balanced meal:
- Green Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for added nutrition.
- Crusty Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread or a dinner roll is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Tips for Success
- Thaw the Potatoes: Ensure the diced potatoes are fully thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Shredding your own cheese melts better and avoids additives found in pre-shredded varieties.
- Adjust Seasoning: Start with less salt and taste the mixture before adding more, as the ham and cheese provide natural saltiness.
- Broil for a Golden Top: For an extra-crispy cheesy crust, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Why This Recipe Works
With its perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness, this Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole is as comforting as it gets. The rich, smooth base from the cream of chicken soup and sour cream pairs perfectly with the salty, smoky ham and hearty potatoes.
Topped with crispy bacon bits and fresh green onions, it’s a crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner at home or a big gathering, this recipe is endlessly adaptable and always hits the spot. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!