Easy Ham and Potato Casserole

This easy ham and potato casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying comfort food dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals. Made with tender diced potatoes, savory ham, and a rich, flavorful cream sauce, this casserole comes together with simple pantry ingredients and bakes up golden and bubbly in the oven.

If you’re wondering what to make with leftover ham, this ham and potato casserole is one of my absolute favorite go-to recipes. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and always a crowd-pleaser. For more comforting dinner ideas, try my Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes or Classic Chicken and Rice Casserole next.

A bubbling casserole dish filled with creamy ham and potatoes, topped with melted cheese and a golden crust

Why you’ll love it

There’s just something magical about the combination of ham, potatoes, and cheese. It’s nostalgic, comforting, and incredibly filling without being complicated. This easy ham and potato casserole checks all the boxes when you want a no-fuss dinner that still feels special.

I especially love this recipe because it’s made with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. The creamy sauce comes together quickly using condensed soup, milk, and sour cream, while Worcestershire sauce and spices add depth and richness without overpowering the dish.

This casserole is also wonderfully versatile. You can serve it as a main dish with a simple salad on the side, or as a hearty side dish for holidays, potlucks, or Sunday dinners. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover ham from Easter, Christmas, or any time you have extra in the fridge.

Another reason I keep coming back to this recipe? It reheats beautifully. The flavors actually get better as they sit, making leftovers something to look forward to rather than an afterthought.

What you’ll need

Here’s a closer look at the ingredients that make this easy ham and potato casserole so rich, creamy, and satisfying:

The creamy sauce

• Condensed cream of chicken soup – This forms the base of the sauce and keeps things easy and extra creamy
• Milk (2% recommended) – Thins the soup just enough for the perfect consistency
• Sour cream – Adds tang and richness for that classic casserole flavor
• Worcestershire sauce – A secret ingredient that adds savory depth
• Garlic powder & onion powder – Simple seasonings that boost flavor without overpowering
• Smoked paprika – Adds warmth and a subtle smoky note
• Black pepper – For gentle heat and balance

The hearty filling

• Russet potatoes – Starchy potatoes that soften beautifully while baking
• Cooked ham – Diced ham adds salty, savory goodness throughout the casserole
• Cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar melts perfectly and adds bold flavor

Ingredients for ham and potato casserole arranged in prep bowls

Tools for this recipe

You don’t need anything fancy to make this casserole, which is another reason I love it so much.

• A large mixing bowl for the sauce
• A sharp knife and cutting board for prepping the potatoes and ham
• A 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil

I like using a sturdy ceramic or glass baking dish because it holds heat well and helps the casserole cook evenly.

How to make easy ham and potato casserole

This is an overview with step-by-step guidance. Full ingredients and instructions are in the recipe card below.

Step 1: Prep the ingredients

Start by preheating your oven and lightly greasing your casserole dish. Peel and dice the potatoes into small, evenly sized cubes so they cook through at the same rate. Dice the cooked ham into bite-sized pieces and shred the cheddar cheese if you haven’t already.

A cutting board with diced potatoes and ham

Step 2: Make the creamy sauce

In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. The sauce should be smooth, creamy, and well combined.

Creamy casserole sauce being whisked in a bowl

Step 3: Assemble the casserole

Add the diced potatoes and ham to the bowl with the sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the rest for topping.

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out into an even layer.

Step 4: Bake until tender

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake until the potatoes are fork-tender. This step allows the potatoes to soften without the cheese browning too quickly.

Step 5: Add cheese and finish baking

Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

Ham and potato casserole baking with melted cheese on top

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving so it can set up nicely.

Pro tips

• Cut potatoes evenly: This ensures they all cook through at the same time
• Cover tightly with foil: Trapping steam helps the potatoes soften properly
• Let it rest before serving: This helps the casserole hold its shape
• Taste your ham first: If it’s very salty, go light on added seasoning

Substitutions and variations

One of the best things about this easy ham and potato casserole is how adaptable it is.

• Swap the soup: Cream of mushroom or cream of celery work well
• Add vegetables: Peas, corn, or broccoli are great additions
• Use different cheese: Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend all melt beautifully
• Make it extra cheesy: Add an extra ½ cup of cheese to the filling
• Add crunch: Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before the final bake

What to serve with ham and potato casserole

This casserole is rich and filling, so I like to pair it with lighter sides.

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli
• Dinner rolls or crusty bread
• Coleslaw for a fresh, crunchy contrast

It’s also perfect alongside holiday mains or served as a standalone dinner with just one or two simple sides.

Leftovers and storage

Leftovers keep beautifully, which makes this recipe perfect for meal prep.

• Refrigerator: Store covered for 3–4 days
• Reheating: Warm in the oven or microwave until heated through
• Freezing: You can freeze it, but the texture of the potatoes may soften slightly upon thawing

If reheating in the oven, cover loosely with foil to prevent the top from drying out.