Cheesy Ham and Hash Brown Casserole Recipe

Frozen hash browns: These provide the base for the casserole and should be thawed before mixing.

Diced cooked ham: Adds a savory, meaty flavor to the dish.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the casserole, providing a rich, cheesy taste.

Condensed cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and depth of flavor.

Sour cream: Contributes to the creamy texture and tangy flavor.

Chopped onion: Adds a bit of crunch and a mild, sweet flavor.

Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the overall taste.

To ensure your hash browns cook evenly and achieve a delightful texture, make sure they are fully thawed and well-drained before mixing them with the other ingredients. Excess moisture can lead to a soggy casserole, so pat them dry with a paper towel if necessary. This step will help you achieve a perfectly crispy and golden brown top layer.

• frozen hash browns - Substitute with grated sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide a similar texture and are naturally gluten-free.

• diced cooked ham - Substitute with diced cooked turkey: Turkey is a leaner option and can be used for a different flavor profile.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts well and provides a milder flavor.

• condensed cream of chicken soup - Substitute with gluten-free cream of chicken soup: Ensures the dish remains gluten-free while maintaining the creamy texture.

• sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture with added protein.

• chopped onion - Substitute with chopped green onions: Green onions add a milder onion flavor and a pop of color.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different flavor and is often less processed.

• pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a subtler heat and won't alter the color of the dish.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• For short-term storage, transfer the casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well 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 tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the wrapped portions with the date and contents. This ensures you know what you’re grabbing and how long it’s been stored.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and flavor.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, approximately 20-30 minutes for individual portions or 45-60 minutes for a whole casserole. Cover with foil if the top starts to brown too quickly.
• For a quicker option, reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the casserole in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat on medium power until hot, stirring occasionally.
• To maintain the cheese's gooey texture, consider adding a fresh sprinkle of shredded cheddar on top before reheating.
• Avoid reheating more than once, as this can affect the quality and safety of the casserole.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover cheesy ham and hash brown casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to regain some of that golden-brown crust.

• Microwave Method: Transfer a portion of the casserole to a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, then check if it's heated through. Stir and continue heating in 1-minute increments if necessary.

• Stovetop Method: Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan. Add the leftover casserole and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the casserole is warmed through and has a slightly crispy bottom.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover casserole in an air fryer-safe dish or line the basket with parchment paper. Heat for about 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the casserole is hot and the top is crispy.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a toaster oven-safe dish. Cover with aluminum foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the top to crisp up.

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) to bake the casserole until bubbly and golden brown.

• Large bowl: Combine hash browns, ham, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and onion.

• Mixing spoon: Mix all the ingredients well in the large bowl.

• 9x13 inch baking dish: Spread the mixture evenly in this greased dish for baking.

• Measuring cups: Measure out the diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream accurately.

• Can opener: Open the can of condensed cream of chicken soup.

• Cutting board: Chop the onion and dice the cooked ham.

• Knife: Use to chop the onion and dice the cooked ham.

• Spatula: Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish.

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

Use pre-chopped onions: Save time by using pre-chopped onions from the store instead of chopping them yourself.

Pre-cooked ham: Opt for pre-cooked ham to eliminate the need for additional cooking time.

Shredded cheese: Buy pre-shredded cheese to skip the shredding step.

Thaw hash browns overnight: Place frozen hash browns in the fridge the night before to ensure they are thawed and ready to use.

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