Cheesy Ham and Hash Brown Casserole Recipe

Hash browns: Thawed frozen hash browns provide the crispy base for the casserole.

Ham: Diced ham adds a savory and meaty element to the dish.

Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese brings a rich, cheesy flavor.

Sour cream: Sour cream adds creaminess and tang to the mixture.

Cream of chicken soup: This canned soup helps bind the ingredients together and adds a creamy texture.

Onion: Chopped onion provides a bit of sweetness and crunch.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the casserole.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the dish.

When mixing the hash browns, ham, cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and onion, ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed to avoid any pockets of flavor. For an extra layer of texture and taste, consider adding a crunchy topping made from crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole before baking to achieve a delightful golden crust.

• thawed frozen hash browns - Substitute with freshly grated potatoes: Freshly grated potatoes can provide a similar texture and flavor, and they can be used immediately without the need for thawing.

• diced ham - Substitute with diced turkey: Diced turkey offers a leaner protein option and a slightly different flavor profile that complements the dish well.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese melts well and provides a milder flavor, which can be a good alternative for those who prefer a less sharp taste.

• sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor while being lower in fat and higher in protein.

• cream of chicken soup - Substitute with cream of mushroom soup: Cream of mushroom soup provides a similar creamy consistency and adds an earthy flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.

• chopped onion - Substitute with chopped shallots: Shallots have a milder and slightly sweeter flavor compared to onions, which can add a subtle depth to the dish.

• salt - Substitute with garlic salt: Garlic salt adds an extra layer of flavor while still providing the necessary saltiness.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile that can add a unique twist to the dish.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.

• For short-term storage, transfer the casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in the refrigerator where it can be stored for up to 3-4 days.

• If you plan to freeze the casserole, portion it into individual servings or keep it whole. Wrap each portion or the entire dish tightly with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

• Label the wrapped casserole with the date and contents to keep track of its freshness. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

• When ready to reheat, if the casserole is frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even reheating and maintains the texture of the dish.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove any plastic wrap and cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent the top from over-browning.

• Bake the casserole for 20-30 minutes or until heated through. If you prefer a crispier top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

• For a quicker reheating option, you can use the microwave. Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through.

• Always ensure the casserole reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving to ensure it is thoroughly reheated and safe to eat.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover cheesy ham and hash brown casserole in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is warmed through and the cheese is bubbly.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Transfer a portion of the casserole to a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover the plate with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to stir and ensure even heating.
  4. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until the casserole is heated thoroughly.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
  3. Place the leftover casserole in the skillet, breaking it up slightly to ensure even heating.
  4. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover casserole in an air fryer-safe dish or on a piece of aluminum foil.
  3. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't overcook.
  4. The casserole should be hot and the cheese should be bubbly and slightly crispy.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients together thoroughly.

• Greased baking dish: Holds the casserole mixture and ensures it doesn't stick during baking.

• Spatula: Useful for mixing the ingredients and transferring the mixture to the baking dish.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the hash browns, ham, cheese, sour cream, and chopped onion.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt and black pepper precisely.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the onion and dicing the ham.

• Knife: Essential for chopping the onion and dicing the ham.

• Can opener: Needed to open the can of cream of chicken soup.

• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when placing the dish in the oven and taking it out.

• Cooling rack: Allows the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

Use pre-chopped ingredients: Save time by buying pre-chopped onions and pre-diced ham from the store.

Thaw hash browns quickly: Thaw frozen hash browns in the microwave to speed up the process.

Mix in the baking dish: Combine all ingredients directly in the baking dish to reduce cleanup time.

Shred cheese in bulk: Shred a large block of cheddar cheese at once and store the extra for future recipes.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin mixing ingredients to save waiting time.