Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole: A Comforting and Flavorful Breakfast or Brunch Dish
Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor? Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is the answer! This casserole combines crispy hash browns, savory ham, and melted cheese into one mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a weeknight dinner. It’s incredibly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering, a family brunch, or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Why You’ll Love Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole: The creamy, cheesy texture of the casserole is perfectly balanced by the savory ham and crispy hash browns. The combination of cheese, ham, and potatoes creates a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy. It’s also versatile, and you can add extra veggies or spices to make it your own. Plus, it can be made ahead, saving you time on busy mornings or when entertaining guests.
Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole:
- For the Casserole:
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash browns (thawed)
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced (leftover ham works great)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup for a lighter version)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Optional Topping:
- 1/2 cup additional shredded cheese (for extra gooeyness)
- 1/2 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (for a crunchy topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, melted butter, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well combined, making sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season and Adjust:
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. If you want a bit more flavor, feel free to add extra spices like paprika, cayenne, or dried herbs.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the casserole mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. If you want a crispy topping, sprinkle the top with additional shredded cheese and/or crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs. This will add a crunchy, golden layer to the casserole.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking.
- Serve:
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Why This Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is Perfect: This dish is a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. It combines all your favorite comfort food ingredients—hash browns, ham, cheese, and a creamy base—into a casserole that’s both filling and flavorful. The ease of preparation, combined with the option to make it ahead of time, makes it ideal for busy mornings or for feeding a crowd.
Customization Tips:
- Add Veggies: You can easily add some veggies to the mix, such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms, to make it more hearty and nutritious.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a diced jalapeño or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking.
- Make it Vegetarian: Omit the ham and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or additional vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a brunch, making a comforting breakfast for your family, or preparing a casserole for a holiday gathering, Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s guaranteed to satisfy. It’s simple to make, incredibly versatile, and can be made ahead for convenience.