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Looking for a delicious way to use up leftover ham? This creamy Ham and Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort food to make after a holiday feast! With tender potatoes, savory ham, and melty cheddar cheese baked together in a rich homemade sauce, this easy casserole is a family favorite. Whether you serve it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this cozy dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a great way to stretch your leftovers into another satisfying meal.

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Why You’ll Love Leftover Ham And Potato Casserole

It’s the perfect way to use holiday leftovers – Don’t let that extra ham go to waste. This recipe gives it new life in a creamy, cheesy casserole. It turns leftovers into a whole new meal that tastes like you planned it from scratch. Perfect for using up what’s in your fridge after a big celebration.
Easy to make with simple ingredients – No fancy shopping list required—just potatoes, cheese, milk, and a few pantry staples. You probably already have everything you need on hand. This makes it great for busy nights when you want a home-cooked meal without a grocery run.
Ultra comforting and satisfying – The creamy cheese sauce, tender potatoes, and hearty ham come together to create a warm, cozy dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s the kind of recipe your family will ask for again and again. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a little comfort food.
Versatile enough for any meal – Serve it as a filling breakfast, a hearty brunch centerpiece, or an easy dinner. This casserole is great on its own, or paired with veggies or salad for a full plate. It fits any time of day!
Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing – Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, creamy flavors in this dish. It’s mild but flavorful, and easy to portion out for a crowd. Great for potlucks, family dinners, or sharing with neighbors.

Ingredients For Leftover Ham And Potato Casserole

Potatoes – These make the base of the casserole and add a hearty, comforting texture. Any variety will work as long as they’re peeled and cubed.
Butter – Adds rich flavor and is used for both sautéing and making the creamy cheese sauce.
Leftover cooked ham – A great way to use up holiday ham! It adds saltiness and protein to the dish.
Onion – Gives the casserole a savory depth of flavor when sautéed with the ham.
All-purpose flour – Used to create a roux that thickens the cheese sauce.
Milk – Combines with the roux to make a smooth, creamy base for the cheese sauce.
Salt and black pepper – Simple seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
Shredded Cheddar cheese – Melts into the sauce for that classic, gooey, cheesy goodness.
Bread crumbs – Sprinkled on top for a golden, crispy finish after baking.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Leftover Ham And Potato Casserole

Large pot – Used to boil the potatoes until they’re tender.
Skillet – Perfect for sautéing the ham and onions to bring out their flavor.
Medium saucepan – For making the creamy, cheesy roux-based sauce.
1 ½-quart casserole dish – Holds the full mixture for baking and serving.
Measuring cups and spoons – Ensure you’re using the right amounts of each ingredient.
Whisk – Helps create a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce.
Mixing spoon – For combining all the ingredients and stirring the sauce.

How To Make Leftover Ham And Potato Casserole

Start by boiling the cubed potatoes until they’re soft, then drain them and set aside.

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While the potatoes are cooking, sauté the ham and onions in a skillet with some butter until the onions are nice and soft.
In a separate saucepan, make a simple cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour to form a roux, then slowly adding milk and stirring until thick.
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine the cooked potatoes with the sautéed ham and onions, and transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top, then sprinkle with breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
Bake until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Serve hot and enjoy that cheesy, comforting goodness!

Serving Suggestions

A crisp salad with fresh lettuce with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
Roasted broccoli florets, French green beans, or baked asparagus, are great options to add color and nutrition.
Pair with fluffy scrambled eggs and French toast for a warm, filling morning meal.
Serve with warm and fluffy dinner rolls or a slice of creamy cornbread.
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser and fits right in with mini quiches, fresh fruits, and pumpkin muffins.

Tips For Success

To get the best results with your leftover ham and potato casserole, here are some helpful tips that will make prep and baking even easier.
Start by cutting your potatoes into evenly sized cubes—this helps them cook at the same rate so you don’t end up with some too soft and others undercooked. Boil the potatoes just until tender, not mushy, so they hold their shape in the casserole. If you’re short on time, you can also use pre-cooked or leftover potatoes to speed things up.
For maximum flavor, take a few extra minutes to sauté the ham and onion together before mixing them with the potatoes. This simple step really boosts the savory taste and gives the casserole that classic homemade flavor. You can even add a pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme if you want to give the dish more depth.
When making the cheese sauce, take your time with the roux. Cook the flour and butter together until lightly golden before slowly whisking in the milk—this keeps the sauce smooth and creamy without lumps. Stir in the cheese gradually and remove from heat once it’s fully melted to avoid a grainy texture.
Always taste the sauce before pouring it over the casserole. Depending on how salty your ham is, you may not need much added salt. A few cracks of black pepper can also enhance the cheesy flavor nicely.
Finally, for a beautiful golden finish, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top before baking. If you want an extra crispy topping, you can lightly spray the breadcrumbs with cooking spray or drizzle a tiny bit of melted butter. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving so it sets up nicely and scoops cleanly.

Variations And Substitutions

This leftover ham and potato casserole is super versatile, so you can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. One of the easiest changes is to use different types of cheese. While cheddar is classic, you can try Swiss, Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack for a little heat. Mixing cheeses can add a deeper, more complex flavor to the dish.
If you’re not a fan of onions or need to make it more kid-friendly, feel free to leave them out or substitute with finely chopped green onions for a milder taste. You can also add vegetables to the mix—peas, corn, or cooked broccoli all work great. Just be sure to use pre-cooked or thawed frozen veggies so they blend well into the casserole without adding extra moisture.
Want to make it more filling? Stir in some cooked pasta or rice along with the ham and potatoes. This will stretch the dish even further and make it go a long way for larger families or potlucks. You could even turn it into a breakfast bake by cracking in a couple of eggs or topping with a fried egg right before serving.
If you’re avoiding gluten, substitute the all-purpose flour in the roux with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. For the breadcrumbs, use gluten-free panko or skip them altogether and sprinkle a little more cheese on top for a bubbly, cheesy crust.
To make it vegetarian, simply leave out the ham and use sautéed mushrooms or extra veggies in its place. You’ll still get a creamy, comforting casserole with tons of flavor. And if you’re looking to cut down on dairy, you can use plant-based milk and vegan cheese—just make sure it melts well and tastes good in savory dishes.
No matter how you change it up, this casserole is super forgiving and easy to customize. It’s a great way to use what you already have while still creating something warm, hearty, and delicious.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftover ham and potato casserole, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can also keep it right in the casserole dish—just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For reheating, the oven works best to maintain that creamy texture and crispy topping. Preheat your oven to 325°F, cover the casserole loosely with foil, and heat for about 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re reheating just a single portion, the microwave is quick and easy—heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
If you’d like to freeze this casserole, it’s best to do so before baking. Assemble everything, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. Leftover baked portions can also be frozen, but the texture of the potatoes may soften slightly upon reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can fully assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if you’re putting it into the oven straight from the fridge. This makes it perfect for prepping the night before a busy morning or dinner party. It’s a great way to save time without sacrificing flavor.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Absolutely. This casserole freezes well, especially if frozen before baking. Just assemble everything in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking as directed. You can also freeze cooked leftovers, but the texture of the potatoes may become a bit softer after reheating.

What kind of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Most potatoes will work, but waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape best after boiling. Russet potatoes are fine too, but they tend to break down more and create a softer texture in the casserole. Whatever type you use, just make sure to cut the potatoes into even-sized cubes so they cook evenly. Pre-cooked or leftover potatoes can also be used to save time.

Can I make this casserole without ham?

Yes! If you want to make a vegetarian version, simply leave out the ham. You can replace it with sautéed mushrooms, chopped spinach, or extra vegetables like broccoli or zucchini. The cheese sauce still provides lots of flavor and creaminess, so you won’t miss the meat. It’s a great meatless option for brunch or dinner.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs on top?

If you don’t have breadcrumbs or want something different, try crushed crackers, cornflakes, or even French fried onions. You can also just sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese over the top for a gooey finish. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the topping altogether. The casserole will still taste amazing without it.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming lumpy?

To get a smooth cheese sauce, take your time with the roux. Cook the butter and flour until golden before slowly adding the milk while whisking constantly. Keep the heat medium and don’t rush the process. Stir in the cheese off the heat for the smoothest result.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles easily! Use a 9×13-inch baking dish and increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes. Just make sure the center is hot and bubbly before serving. Perfect for feeding a crowd or bringing to a potluck.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely. The cheesy, mild flavors are loved by kids and adults alike. You can even sneak in finely chopped veggies if needed. Serve with a side of fruit or toast for a complete kid-approved meal.

Other Easy Ham Recipes

Cheesy Ham and Potato Breakfast – This hearty breakfast dish combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheese for a warm and comforting start to your day.

Baked Ham and Cheese Slider – These soft, buttery sliders are filled with ham and gooey cheese, then baked to golden perfection for an easy crowd-pleasing snack.

Ham and Cheese Sandwich – A classic ham and cheese sandwich made extra crispy in the air fryer for a quick and satisfying meal.

Honey Glazed Baked Ham – This sweet and savory baked ham is coated in a sticky honey glaze, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table.

Other Easy Potato Recipes

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes loaded with the rich, mellow flavor of roasted garlic. An easy side dish with a gourmet touch.

Creamed Baby Potatoes and Sweet Peas – Tender baby potatoes and green peas simmered in a velvety cream sauce for a comforting and nostalgic side dish.

Twice Baked Potatoes – These fluffy, cheesy twice baked potatoes are loaded with flavor and crisped to perfection in the air fryer or oven.

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Plate of cheesy ham and potato casserole served hot, perfect for using up leftover holiday ham.

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