Years ago, my neighbor Marlene dropped off a warm casserole when my youngest had the flu. It was wrapped in a floral tea towel, still steaming, and smelled like butter and comfort. I took one bite and immediately scribbled a mental note: ask her for the recipe!
It was salty, cheesy, creamy—everything I didn’t know I was missing in a single dish. We spent that evening in pajamas, sharing spoonfuls right from the dish. That was the first time I truly appreciated how a casserole could hold so much warmth and care.
Since then, I’ve made my own version countless times, especially after holidays when I have leftover ham on hand. Over time, I added a bit more cheese (because why not?), tweaked the spices, and occasionally threw in cornflakes on top for crunch. Now, it’s the kind of dish I make when I want to feed people I love without overthinking. It’s practical but packed with flavor—a golden, bubbly tray of comfort that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated steps.
Every time I pull it from the oven, I think of that little moment years ago—how something simple can linger in memory because it was shared with kindness. And now, I’m sharing it with you.
Short Description
This hearty Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with savory ham—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and freezer-friendly.
Key Ingredients
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (optional topping)
Tools Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Casserole Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine thawed hash browns, diced ham, cheddar cheese, mozzarella, chopped onion, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed and evenly coated.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly and smooth the surface.
Step 4: Add Topping (Optional)
If you like a crispy top, sprinkle crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs evenly over the casserole.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the casserole is golden and bubbly around the edges.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving. It helps the flavors settle and makes slicing easier.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Comfort food made simple
– Perfect for using leftover ham
– Feeds a crowd without stress
– Freezer-friendly and make-ahead approved
– Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor
– Easy enough for beginners
– One-dish meal, minimal cleanup
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
1. Using Frozen Hash Browns Straight from the Bag
Problem: The casserole becomes watery.
Fix: Always thaw and drain hash browns before mixing to avoid excess moisture.
2. Overbaking the Dish
Problem: The edges dry out or burn.
Fix: Keep the foil on for the first 30 minutes, then remove just to brown the top. Watch closely after that.
3. Skipping the Seasoning
Problem: Bland flavor, even with ham and cheese.
Fix: Don’t forget the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper—they bring balance and depth.
4. Uneven Ingredient Distribution
Problem: Some bites have more ham or cheese than others.
Fix: Stir thoroughly before transferring to the baking dish so every scoop is consistent.
5. Serving Too Soon
Problem: The casserole falls apart.
Fix: Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to help it set.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This casserole shines as a stand-alone dish, especially for brunch buffets or cozy weeknight dinners. Serve it family-style right from the baking dish with a side of:
– Fresh fruit salad for breakfast
– Steamed green beans or a leafy salad for dinner
– A dollop of sour cream or drizzle of hot sauce on top
– Crusty bread or biscuits for extra comfort
– Fresh squeezed orange juice or hot coffee
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating:
Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 325°F for 20–25 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual portions for 1–2 minutes until warmed through.
Air Fryer: Great for reheating small slices—set to 350°F for 6–8 minutes for a crispy finish.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it the night before, cover with foil, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
2. What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
A homemade white sauce (butter, flour, chicken broth, milk) works well if you prefer to skip canned soup.
3. Is it okay to skip the topping?
Absolutely. The casserole is delicious with or without it. The topping just adds extra crunch.
4. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, just grate them and squeeze out any excess moisture with a kitchen towel before using.
5. Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Definitely! Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Pepper Jack can be used depending on your flavor preference.
Tips & Tricks
Dice the ham small so it distributes evenly throughout.
Use a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for melty, flavorful results.
Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
Let kids sprinkle the topping—it’s a fun step they’ll enjoy.
Don’t skip the resting time—it helps everything hold together beautifully.
Recipe Variations
1. Spicy Southwest Twist
Swap in Pepper Jack cheese
Add 1/2 cup diced green chilies and 1/2 tsp chili powder
Top with crushed tortilla chips instead of cornflakes
2. Veggie Lover’s Casserole
Replace ham with 1 cup sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers
Use cream of mushroom soup
Add an extra 1/4 cup mozzarella for extra melt
3. Breakfast Sausage Version
Swap ham for 2 cups cooked breakfast sausage
Add 1/4 tsp paprika for depth
Top with a little extra cheddar before baking
Final Thoughts
It’s comforting about hearing that golden crust crackle as you slice into it. I’ve made it on lazy weekends, after church brunches, even for supper on a snowy evening—and somehow, it fits all those moods. Sometimes I’ll glance over and see my husband going back for “just a sliver more,” and I know it’s a keeper.
You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps—just a little warmth, a little cheese, and good company. That’s the kind of cooking I was raised on. If this casserole finds a spot on your table, I hope it brings the same kind of simple satisfaction it brings to ours.
Ham And Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
Print ThisIngredients
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (optional topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Heat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix hash browns, ham, cheeses, onion, butter, soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Fill the Dish
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Add Topping (Optional)
Sprinkle crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs over the top for a crispy finish.
Step 5: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 10–15 more minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving for easier slicing and better flavor.
