Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
Ready in 1 hour | Serves 6–8
This hearty, comforting casserole is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner! Packed with crispy hash browns, savory ham, and creamy cheese sauce, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed (or refrigerated hash browns)
2 cups cooked ham, diced (or substitute bacon, sausage, or turkey)
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Colby Jack, pepper Jack, or Swiss)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or mushroom or celery soup)
1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
½ cup milk (whole, 2%, or even evaporated milk for extra richness)
½ cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Topping:
1 cup crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13″ baking dish.
2️⃣ Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine hash browns, ham, cheese, soup, sour cream, milk, green onions, garlic powder, salt & pepper.
3️⃣ Assemble: Spread mixture evenly in the baking dish.
4️⃣ Add Topping (Optional): Mix crushed cornflakes with melted butter and sprinkle over casserole.
5️⃣ Bake: Cook uncovered 45–50 mins until bubbly and golden. Let rest 5–10 mins before serving.
🔥 Pro Tips
✔ Make ahead: Assemble the night before, refrigerate, and bake the next day (add 10 mins to baking time).
✔ Extra crispy: Broil for 2–3 mins at the end for a golden crust.
✔ Low-fat version: Use reduced-fat soup, sour cream, and cheese.
✔ Gluten-free: Use gluten-free cream soup and skip breadcrumbs (or use GF panko).
Serving Suggestions
🍳 Perfect for:
Brunch buffets (pair with scrambled eggs and fruit)
Potlucks (travels well!)
Weeknight dinners (serve with a green salad)
Leftovers? Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the topping crispy!
Variations to Try:
▪️ Cheesy Bacon & Jalapeño – Add crispy bacon and diced jalapeños.
▪️ Veggie-Packed – Stir in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
▪️ Breakfast Style – Top with fried eggs before serving.
Want it spicier? Add ½ tsp smoked paprika or hot sauce to the mix!
Let me know if you’d like a slow-cooker version or mini muffin tin individual servings! 🧀🥓