Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that brings warmth to any meal. This hearty casserole combines crispy hash browns, savory ham, and rich cheeses, creating a flavorful blend that everyone will love. Perfect for breakfast or dinner, it’s a meal that satisfies the whole family.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic choice for many reasons. First, it’s simple to prepare, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. It’s great for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for later. With ingredients that are easy to find and often on hand, Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole makes meal planning a breeze. Plus, the kids will love it!
How to Make Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
Making Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is straightforward. Just follow these steps, and in no time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, diced ham, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, chopped onion, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- If desired, sprinkle crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs evenly on top of the casserole for a crispy finish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy as a hearty breakfast or dinner.
How to Serve Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
Serve this casserole warm and enjoy it as a main dish. You can pair it with a fresh salad, some fruits, or crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s also fantastic on its own, making it a satisfying choice for any time of the day.
How to Store Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It’s a quick way to enjoy a delicious meal without much hassle!
Tips to Make Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
- Make sure to thaw the hash browns completely before mixing, as this helps them cook evenly.
- Feel free to adjust the cheese amounts based on your preference. Add more cheddar for a cheesier dish or mix in other types of cheese.
- If you want extra flavor, consider adding some cooked bacon or bell peppers.
Variation
You can personalize this casserole by swapping the ham for cooked sausage or ground beef. Also, try adding veggies like spinach or diced bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes! Just peel and shred them, then make sure to cook them partially before adding to the mixture to ensure they bake through completely.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day before, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just increase the baking time by a few minutes if baking cold.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! You can skip the meat and add more vegetables or beans. Consider using mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli for a tasty vegetarian option.
