This hearty, cheesy casserole combines tender hash browns, diced ham, and sharp cheddar in a creamy base — perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients
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Frozen hash browns – 1 bag (32 oz)
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Cream of chicken soup – 1 can (10.5 oz)
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Sour cream – 1 cup
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Butter – ½ cup, melted
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Sharp cheddar cheese – 2 cups, shredded
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Onion – 1 small, diced
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Ham – 2 cups, diced
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Salt & black pepper – to taste
Optional: Chopped fresh chives for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat the oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Mix the casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, shredded cheese, diced onion, diced ham, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
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Assemble: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
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Bake: Cook uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
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Cool & serve: Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chives if desired.
Quick Notes & Pro Tips
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Use frozen hash browns straight from the freezer — they hold their shape better while baking.
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Grate your own cheese for a smoother, creamier melt.
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Holiday ham hack: Leftover baked ham works perfectly here.
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Make-ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance. If baking cold, add 5–10 minutes to the cook time.
Why You’ll Love It
This casserole is the ultimate comfort food — cheesy, creamy, and hearty enough to serve any time of day. It’s perfect for family dinners, holiday brunches, or potlucks.
Variations & Serving Suggestions
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Switch the protein: Substitute ham with cooked sausage, bacon, or turkey.
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Add veggies: Stir in bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach for extra flavor and color.
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Top it off: Add a crunchy topping of crushed Ritz crackers or cornflakes mixed with melted butter for texture.
Storage & Make-Ahead
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Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
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Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through or in the microwave for quick servings.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes — use gluten-free cream soup and verify the hash browns are GF.
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
A: Yes, but shred them and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Use a deeper casserole dish or two 9×13 pans and extend baking time as needed.
Personal Note
This recipe has been a lifesaver for using up leftover holiday ham — and my family requests it year-round. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast at any gathering.