Creamy Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole Recipe

Benefits and Advantages of ham and cheese hash brown casserole

The ham and cheese hash brown casserole offers a perfect blend of ease and nutrition, making it a favorite for busy weeknights, potlucks, or holiday meals. Its straightforward preparation requires minimal effort, combining familiar ingredients like shredded hashbrowns, diced ham, and sharp cheddar cheese into a creamy, satisfying dish. The casserole provides a balanced combination of protein and carbohydrates, offering sustained energy and fullness. Cheese adds rich flavor and calcium, while the creamy texture ensures comfort for all ages. This recipe’s adaptability allows for easy substitutions to suit various dietary needs without compromising taste. The even baking process unites the flavors and textures beautifully, resulting in a rich and hearty meal that’s both accessible and crowd-pleasing. Its versatility and nutritional balance help it stand out as a wholesome and convenient recipe anyone can enjoy.

Essential Ingredients for ham and cheese hash brown casserole

• 30 oz shredded hashbrowns (thawed and thoroughly drained)
• 1 to 2 cups diced cooked ham (thick cut or holiday ham preferred)
• 2 to 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reserve ½ cup for topping)
• 8 oz sour cream
• ½ cup diced onion
• ¼ to ½ cup melted butter (plus extra for greasing and optional topping drizzle)
• ½ teaspoon white or black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic salt or garlic powder
• ½ cup milk
• 4 large eggs (optional, for a breakfast casserole variation)
• ½ cup sliced green onions for garnish
• Optional toppings: ½ cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a crunchy crust

The hashbrowns create a hearty base, while diced ham contributes savory protein. Sharp cheddar cheese provides creamy richness, balanced by the tang of sour cream. Onion and seasonings deepen the flavor, and optional eggs add structure for a breakfast-style casserole.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your ham and cheese hash brown casserole

Customizing this casserole to suit dietary preferences is simple with these substitutions:

• Vegetarian: Omit ham and replace with sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or plant-based meat alternatives.
• Vegan: Use plant-based cheese and sour cream substitutes, replace ham with smoked tofu or seasoned tempeh, and use a dairy-free cream of mushroom or chicken soup alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Choose gluten-free cream soup substitutes and verify all processed ingredients for gluten-free certification; use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for topping.
• Lower Calorie: Use reduced-fat or fat-free cheese and sour cream, and reduce melted butter quantity or substitute with a heart-healthy oil.
• Flavor Variations: Incorporate vegetables like sautéed spinach, green chiles for heat, or mozzarella cheese alongside cheddar for different textures and flavors.

These swaps offer flexibility to maintain the comforting taste and texture of the casserole while accommodating health goals and food allergies.

How to Prepare the Perfect ham and cheese hash brown casserole: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2. Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs (if using) and milk until well combined.
3. Combine main ingredients: Stir in thawed and drained hashbrowns, diced ham, 1½ to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced onion, melted butter, pepper, and garlic salt. If using cream of mushroom or chicken soup, mix it with sour cream before adding.
4. Mix gently: Fold the ingredients until evenly distributed, taking care not to crush the hashbrowns to retain texture.
5. Transfer to baking dish: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared dish, smoothing the top.
6. Add toppings: Sprinkle reserved cheese on top and, if desired, spread the optional crunchy topping of crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter. Drizzle extra melted butter over the topping for crispness.
7. Bake covered: Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 45 to 60 minutes until bubbly and set.
8. Uncover and brown: Remove foil and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes to brown the cheese and crisp the topping.
9. Rest before serving: Let the casserole sit for 5 to 10 minutes to set, then garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm.

Following these steps will yield a creamy, cheesy casserole with perfectly baked hashbrowns and savory ham, ready for any meal occasion.

For more comfort food inspiration, browse my Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents recipe.

Advanced Tips and Variations

Refine your ham and cheese hash brown casserole with these expert tips and creative variations:

• Use freshly shredded cheese: Freshly shredded sharp cheddar melts smoother and creates a creamier texture than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
• Add fresh herbs: Incorporate chopped chives or thyme for a bright, aromatic lift that complements the richness.
• Boost flavor with veggies: Mix in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or diced jalapeños to add color, texture, and subtle heat.
• Experiment with proteins: Increase protein by adding crumbled cooked bacon or swap ham for smoked turkey for a leaner option.
• Make it creamier: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy, protein-rich boost.
• Cheese blends: Use Monterey Jack or smoked Gouda along with or instead of cheddar for nuanced flavor profiles.
• Crunchy topping: Sprinkle crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking to add a satisfying crisp crust.

These thoughtful enhancements maintain the heartiness of this classic casserole while allowing personalization to suit your taste and dietary needs.

How to Store ham and cheese hash brown casserole: Best Practices

Proper storage preserves the casserole’s freshness and texture for future enjoyment:

• Cool completely: Allow the casserole to cool fully at room temperature before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
• Refrigeration: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Portion the casserole into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Freeze for 2–3 months. Remove optional crispy topping before freezing for better texture.
• Thawing: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for optimal moisture retention.
• Reheating: Warm in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 20–30 minutes, covered, to maintain creaminess and crispy edges. Microwave reheating is quicker but may soften texture.
• Tip: Remove the cover during the last 5 minutes to restore topping crispness.

Nutritional Value of ham and cheese hash brown casserole

This creamy ham and cheese hash brown casserole provides balanced nutrition with satisfying portions of protein, fats, and carbohydrates:

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About ham and cheese hash brown casserole

Creamy Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole Recipe

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• Author: Isabella Hayes
• Total Time: 55 to 100 minutes
• Yield: 8 to 10 servings 1x
• Diet: Contains dairy and gluten

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Description

🧀 This Creamy Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole combines tender hashbrowns and savory ham in a rich, cheesy sauce.
🍽️ Perfect for brunch, potlucks, or family dinners, it’s a hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

30 oz shredded hashbrowns (thawed and thoroughly drained)
1 to 2 cups diced ham (thick cut or cooked holiday ham)
2 to 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reserve about ½ cup for topping)
8 oz sour cream
½ cup diced onion
¼ to ½ cup melted butter (plus extra for greasing and optional topping drizzle)
½ teaspoon white or black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic salt or garlic powder
½ cup milk
4 large eggs (optional, for a breakfast-style casserole)
½ cup sliced green onions for garnish
Optional toppings: ½ cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a crispy crust

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs (if using) and milk.
3. Stir in thawed and drained hashbrowns, diced ham, 1½ to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced onion, melted butter, pepper, and garlic salt. If using cream of mushroom or chicken soup, mix it in with the sour cream before adding.
4. Fold gently to combine without crushing the hashbrowns.
5. Spread mixture evenly in prepared dish.
6. Sprinkle reserved cheese on top and add optional crunchy topping if desired. Drizzle extra melted butter over topping.
7. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 45 to 60 minutes until bubbly and set.
8. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes to brown cheese and crisp topping.
9. Let casserole rest 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions.

Notes

❄️ Thoroughly thaw and drain frozen hashbrowns to prevent sogginess and ensure crispiness.
🐖 Use good-quality ham, preferably leftover holiday ham; for vegetarian versions, substitute with sautéed vegetables.
🕒 Make ahead by assembling 1-2 days before baking or freezing uncooked or fully baked (without topping). Thaw before reheating.

• Prep Time: 10 to 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 45 to 70 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350-450
• Carbohydrates: 19-30 grams

Keywords: Creamy, Ham, Cheese, Hash Brown Casserole