Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Casserole
This comforting, hearty casserole is the perfect blend of savory flavors and creamy textures. Combining tender hashbrowns with diced ham, melted cheddar, and a creamy sauce, this dish is a family favorite for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. Its rich flavors and filling ingredients make it ideal for feeding a crowd, and it’s easy to whip up with pantry staples. Enjoy it as a complete meal or as a delicious side!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Serves: 6-8 people
Ingredients:
- 1 package frozen shredded hashbrowns (about 30 oz)
- 1 cup diced ham (cooked)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced green pepper
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat oven and prepare baking dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of butter. -
Combine dry ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the frozen shredded hashbrowns, diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, and diced green pepper. Stir to combine. -
Prepare the creamy sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth. -
Combine both mixtures:
Pour the creamy sauce over the hashbrowns and ham mixture. Stir everything together until well combined and all ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce. -
Transfer to the baking dish:
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. -
Bake the casserole:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through. -
Let it cool:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to cut.
Serving Tips:
- Serve with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Pair with a soft dinner roll or crusty bread for added texture.
- For extra indulgence, top with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
Variations:
- Bacon and Cheese: Substitute the diced ham with cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.
- Veggie-packed: Add extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes to the mixture for a colorful and nutritious twist.
- Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the casserole some heat.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Swap the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese variety: Use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Swiss instead of just cheddar.
- Vegetarian: Skip the ham and substitute with cooked beans or a plant-based protein.
- Make it gluten-free: Ensure that the cream of chicken soup and any other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
20 FAQs for Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Casserole:
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Can I use fresh hashbrowns instead of frozen?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they cook through. -
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it the next day. -
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave. -
What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be used as substitutes. -
Can I use ham from a leftover holiday meal?
Yes, this recipe is great for using up leftover holiday ham. -
Can I add more cheese?
Definitely! Feel free to sprinkle more cheese on top before baking for an extra cheesy finish. -
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. -
Can I use a different kind of soup?
Yes, you can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for variety. -
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed and use a larger baking dish. -
Is this casserole spicy?
No, but you can add spice by including jalapeños or hot sauce. -
Can I make this without green peppers?
Yes, you can leave them out or replace with other veggies like mushrooms or zucchini. -
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, kids usually love the cheesy, creamy texture. -
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese, sour cream, and a non-dairy soup base like coconut or vegetable-based cream soups. -
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming soggy?
Be sure to drain any excess liquid from the hashbrowns before assembling the casserole. -
Can I use frozen diced ham?
Yes, frozen ham works just as well as fresh diced ham. -
What can I serve on the side?
Fresh vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a simple fruit salad are excellent choices. -
Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for about 4-6 hours in a greased slow cooker. -
Is it better to bake this uncovered?
Yes, baking uncovered allows the top to get crispy and golden. -
Can I add scrambled eggs to make it more breakfast-oriented?
Absolutely! Adding scrambled eggs will turn it into a delicious breakfast casserole. -
Can I make a vegetarian version?
Yes, skip the ham and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein.
20 Best Tips to Make the Perfect Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Casserole:
- Use frozen hashbrowns for convenience and perfect texture.
- Make sure the hashbrowns are thawed slightly so they don’t release too much moisture during baking.
- Don’t skip the butter; it adds richness and flavor.
- Season generously with salt and pepper to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded for better meltability.
- Mix the sauce ingredients well so the flavors combine fully.
- Bake uncovered for a golden, crispy top.
- Use a shallow baking dish for even cooking.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set.
- Pre-cook the onions and peppers for added flavor before mixing them in.
- Add a crunchy topping by sprinkling breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes on top before baking.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a richer, more complex flavor.
- For extra creaminess, add an extra 1/4 cup of sour cream.
- Avoid overmixing the casserole, as it could turn out dense.
- Try different proteins like sausage or chicken for variation.
- Use a combination of fresh and frozen vegetables for better texture and taste.
- Add garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth of flavor.
- Bake until bubbly and the top is golden brown for the best texture.
- Prepare the casserole the night before for easy meal prep.
- Serve with a side of fruit to balance the rich and creamy casserole.
Enjoy this deliciously creamy and cheesy Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Casserole! Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, it’s sure to become a beloved dish at your table.
