Cheesy Ham Potato Casserole

Cheesy Ham Potato Casserole has a way of gathering people around the table no matter the season. It is creamy savory and packed with flavor—perfect for those times when you need something satisfying and comforting that comes together without too much fuss.

I first pulled this together after a big holiday ham and I love how each bite gives you the nostalgia of family get-togethers and homey meals.

Ingredients

• Yukon or russet potatoes: Offer just the right amount of starch for a creamy texture choose firm unblemished potatoes for best results
• Yellow onion: Brings mild sweetness and flavor to the casserole pick one that feels heavy for its size
• Cream of chicken soup: Makes the sauce smooth and rich go for a low-sodium option if preferred
• Cheddar cheese soup: Adds extra cheddar flavor and silkiness
• Cooked ham: Brings savory saltiness and protein cube evenly for consistent bites
• Sour cream: Creates extra tang and creaminess use full-fat for a richer result
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and brings a strong cheesy punch grate it yourself for best flavor
• Salt and black pepper: Let you season to taste freshly ground black pepper makes a difference

Instructions

Prep The Oven And Dish:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease your baking dish well to help prevent sticking and make clean-up easier

Prepare The Potatoes:

Peel and dice potatoes into even three-quarter inch pieces and rinse them under cold water to wash away extra starch which helps keep the casserole from getting too thick or gluey Then drain thoroughly

Mix The Ingredients:

Combine the diced potatoes diced onion cream of chicken soup cheddar cheese soup diced ham and sour cream in a large bowl Add salt and pepper and stir until everything is evenly coated with the creamy mixture

Assemble The Casserole:

Pour the potato and ham mixture into the greased baking dish Spread it out evenly and make sure most of the potatoes are submerged in sauce If it looks dry add a splash of milk so the potatoes cook through without drying out

Add The Cheese Topping:

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the entire top of the casserole so you get that irresistible golden bubbly crust after baking

Bake Covered Then Uncovered:

Cover with foil and bake for thirty-five minutes to steam the potatoes gently and keep the top moist at first Remove the foil and continue baking for another ten to twenty minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbling and browned

Rest And Serve:

Let the casserole rest for five to ten minutes before cutting This gives the sauce time to thicken slightly making it easier to serve generous portions while still hot

Sharp cheddar is my favorite part here It brings such depth and richness that every time I make this the aroma alone brings my family to the kitchen My sister once called mid-bake just to ask when dinner would be ready because she could smell it down the hall

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely before sealing in airtight containers This casserole stays fresh in the fridge for up to four days. Freeze single servings wrapped in foil and placed inside freezer bags or a dish for up to two months Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven covered with foil to prevent drying out or use the microwave for quick lunches

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap cream of mushroom or celery soup for the chicken version if needed. If you are out of cheddar cheese soup use a thicker homemade cheese sauce or mix more shredded cheese with milk. Smoked turkey or even rotisserie chicken works well instead of ham especially around holiday leftovers

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a green salad tossed in a sharp vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Serve beside roasted green beans or steamed broccoli for added veggies. A little chopped chive or green onion on top adds color and zip at the table

Cultural and Seasonal Touches

Ham and potato casseroles have roots in humble farmhouse kitchens making the most of what is on hand. This dish feels especially right after holidays when leftover ham abounds or on chilly winter weekends. In spring swap in fresh herbs or scallions for a lighter bite

Seasonal Adaptations

Incorporate diced bell pepper or peas for spring or summer flair. Add a dash of smoked paprika for a cozy winter aroma. Try with sweet potatoes for a slight twist in fall

Cooking Notes

Uniform potatoes create the best creamy texture. Shredding your own cheese means better melt and flavor. Baking covered first keeps potatoes moist and prevents the cheese from getting too dark too soon

Success Stories

I have fed this casserole to teenagers and toddlers and never had leftovers to store. My neighbor once borrowed the recipe after tasting it at our block party and now it is her go-to for Sunday dinners. This is the one meal my whole family will happily eat on repeat

Freezer Meal Conversion

Assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake. Wrap tightly and freeze. Label with the baking instructions. Bake straight from the freezer covered for sixty minutes then finish uncovered for best results

This casserole is pure comfort it is always a hit on busy weeknights or special gatherings. Enjoy every cheesy creamy bite with your favorite people and warmest memories.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of potatoes works best?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes hold up well during baking and provide a creamy texture.

→ Can I use leftover ham?

Yes, diced leftover ham adds flavor and is a great way to use up extra cooked ham.

→ Is fresh or pre-shredded cheddar better?

Freshly shredded cheddar melts more smoothly, making for a creamier, richer topping.

→ Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?

Yes, assembly can be done in advance and baked just before serving for convenience.

→ How do I know when it is done?

The top should be golden and bubbly, and the potatoes should be fork-tender when pierced.