Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! If you’re searching for that ultimate comfort food that brings a bit of nostalgia with every bite, look no further than this Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole. This dish has been a staple in my family since my aunt first whipped it up for a holiday brunch years ago. I can still picture myself sitting at the table, eyes wide with excitement as I watched everyone dig in. The smell of melting cheese and savory ham always lures me into the kitchen like a movie magnet. And let’s be real; what’s not to love about a cheesy, creamy casserole filled with delightful hash browns? It’s a hug in a dish!
What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility. I’ve turned it into a breakfast feast, a potluck savior, and even a cozy dinner when I’m too lazy (let’s be honest) to make something from scratch. Trust me, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household too. So, pull up a chair, and let’s dive into the details of this cheesy, hearty casserole!
What’s in Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole?
- Frozen hash browns: A 30 oz bag makes life easy! Thaw them out, and they turn into the perfect base for this casserole. I use the Ore-Ida brand, but any variety will do.
- Diced ham: You’ll need about a cup of this savory goodness. Leftover ham from holiday dinners works great, or you can grab some from the deli counter. It brings that smoky flavor we adore!
- Shredded cheese: Grab two cups of shredded cheddar or a cheese blend. I often go for sharp cheddar for that punch, but feel free to mix it up!
- Sour cream: One cup of creamy greatness. It adds delicious richness—I love using Daisy brand for its fresh taste.
- Cream of chicken soup: This canned gem (10.5 oz) acts as a binder and flavor enhancer. Campbell’s is my go-to!
- Green onions: A quarter cup of these vibrant beauties! They add a bit of color and a mild onion flavor. You can toss a few extra on top if you like.
- Milk: Half a cup helps thin out the mixture a bit. I usually grab 2% for a little creaminess.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Just a sprinkle of each (1/4 teaspoon) adds a burst of flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper: Adjust these seasonings to your preference; it really ties everything together.
- Additional shredded cheese: Optional, but if you’re like me and can’t resist, go ahead and sprinkle some more on top before baking!
Is Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about health—because I know we all want to indulge guilt-free. This casserole is comforting and hearty, which can mean it’s a little heavier on the calories side. The combination of hash browns and sour cream packs in carbohydrates and fats, so enjoy it in moderation! But don’t let that ruin your fun! Because of the diced ham, you get protein, which helps balance things out. For a healthier spin, try using whole grain hash browns or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to lighten the load without sacrificing flavor. It’s all about that perfect balance!
Ingredients List
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1 cup diced ham
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a mix)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Additional shredded cheese for topping (optional)
How to Make Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole?
- First things first—preheat that oven to 350°F (175°C). Get it nice and toasty!
- In a large bowl, combine your thawed hash browns, diced ham, and two cups of shredded cheese. Give them a good mix!
- In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and some salt and pepper until it’s all smooth and delicious.
- Pour that sour cream mixture over the hash brown mix and stir gently until everything is nicely coated.
- Transfer this glorious mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Looks good already, right?
- If you’re feeling extra cheesy, sprinkle some additional shredded cheese right on top!
- Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown. You’ll want to grab a chair and wait while it bakes—it’s hard to be patient!
- Once it’s out, let it cool for a few minutes. Trust me, you don’t want to burn your tongue on this deliciousness. Garnish with some chopped green onions if desired, and dig in!
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Make it ahead! You can combine everything, cover it, and leave it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- Feeling spicy? Throw in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder into the mix for a kick!
- This dish is not just a breakfast item! It’s perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner, too—flexibility is key in the kitchen!
This Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole will quickly become part of your go-to recipe collection—trust me! Now, go grab those ingredients and make something magical happen in your kitchen. And if you do try it, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Happy cooking!
