Easy Ham and Potato Casserole

This easy ham and potato casserole recipe is a creamy, cheesy, and incredibly comforting family dinner that’s baked to golden perfection. It’s simple to prepare, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and is ready with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals!

If you’re wondering what to make with leftover ham, this casserole is one of my go-to recipes. You might also love trying my Cheesy Chicken and Rice Bake or Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole next for more comforting dinner inspiration.

Why you’ll love it

I absolutely love how this ham and potato casserole turns humble ingredients into something so rich and satisfying. The combination of tender potatoes, smoky ham, and a creamy, cheesy sauce is just unbeatable comfort food.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to throw together. There’s no complicated prep or fancy techniques involved—just simple layering, mixing, and baking. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home and fills your kitchen with the most amazing aroma as it bakes.

Another reason I keep coming back to this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re using leftover holiday ham or cooking it fresh, this casserole adapts beautifully. Plus, it feeds a crowd, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

And let’s not forget the texture—soft, creamy potatoes paired with gooey melted cheddar and bits of savory ham in every bite. It’s hearty, comforting, and always a hit!

What you’ll need

Here’s everything I use to make this creamy ham and potato casserole:

• Cream of chicken soup – This creates the base of the creamy sauce and adds rich flavor.
• Milk (2% recommended) – Helps thin out the sauce while keeping it creamy.
• Sour cream – Adds tanginess and makes the casserole extra rich.
• Worcestershire sauce – A small amount adds deep, savory umami flavor.
• Garlic powder & onion powder – Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste.
• Smoked paprika – Gives a subtle smoky warmth that pairs perfectly with ham.
• Black pepper – For a bit of gentle heat and balance.
• Cheddar cheese – I use freshly shredded for the best melt and flavor.
• Russet potatoes – These are perfect because they become tender and absorb the sauce beautifully.
• Cooked ham – Diced into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.

A collection of prepped ingredients including diced ham, potatoes, shredded cheese, and creamy sauce in bowls

Tools for this recipe

You don’t need anything fancy to make this casserole, which is another reason I love it. Here are the basics I use:

• A large mixing bowl
• A sharp knife and cutting board
• A 9×13-inch baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• A whisk or spoon for mixing

How to make Easy Ham and Potato Casserole

This is a simple step-by-step overview. Full instructions are in the recipe card below.

Step 1: Prep the ingredients

I start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small, even cubes so they cook evenly. Then I dice the cooked ham and shred the cheese if I haven’t already.

Step 2: Make the creamy sauce

In a large bowl, I whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the casserole

I add the diced potatoes, ham, and about half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the bowl with the sauce. Then I gently stir everything together until evenly coated.

Step 4: Transfer to baking dish

I pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 5: Bake covered

I cover the dish with foil and bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Add cheese and finish baking

I remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and enjoy

I let it cool slightly before serving. The sauce thickens as it sits, making it even creamier.

A spoon scooping out cheesy ham and potato casserole with gooey melted cheese stretching

Pro tips

• Cut potatoes evenly: This ensures they cook at the same rate and become perfectly tender.
• Don’t skip covering with foil: It helps the potatoes steam and soften properly.
• Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Let it rest before serving: This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve.

Substitutions and variations

I love how flexible this recipe is. Here are some easy ways to customize it:

• Swap the soup: Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery instead of chicken.
• Add veggies: Broccoli, peas, or green beans work great in this casserole.
• Try different cheeses: Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend can change the flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Use sweet potatoes: For a slightly sweeter twist.

What to serve with this casserole

Since this dish is rich and hearty, I like to pair it with lighter sides:

• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed or roasted vegetables
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• A simple cucumber salad

Leftovers and storage

This casserole stores beautifully, which makes it perfect for meal prep.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Reheating: I reheat it in the oven at a low temperature or microwave individual portions. Add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
• Freezing: You can freeze it, but the texture of the potatoes may change slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! I often assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, I just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Do I need to cook the potatoes first?

Nope! They cook perfectly in the oven as the casserole bakes.

Can I use leftover ham?

Absolutely. This is one of my favorite ways to use leftover holiday ham.