Cheesy Ham and Tater Tot Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Cheesy Ham and Tater Tot Casserole
This Cheesy Ham and Tater Tot Casserole is the epitome of comfort food! It’s a delightful combination of crispy tater tots, savory ham, and gooey cheddar cheese, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your family during a cozy gathering, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it a fantastic choice for cooks of all ages.
A Personal Story Behind My Cheesy Ham and Tater Tot Casserole Journey
Growing up, my family often enjoyed hearty casseroles, and this Cheesy Ham and Tater Tot Casserole was a staple during family gatherings. I remember my mother making it for special occasions, filling the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. The way the tater tots became golden and crispy while the cheese melted into a gooey layer was nothing short of magical. This dish always brings back fond memories of laughter and togetherness, and now I love sharing it with my own family.
What Makes This Cheesy Ham and Tater Tot Casserole Recipe Special?
What sets this casserole apart is its incredible ease of preparation and the comforting blend of flavors. The combination of creamy soup, savory ham, and crispy tater tots creates a delightful texture and taste that everyone loves. It’s versatile, too! You can easily modify it to suit your dietary needs or preferences. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover ham, making it a budget-friendly option!
The Full Cheesy Ham and Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs tater tots
- 26 oz cream of chicken soup (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 lb diced ham
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 12 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole cooks evenly and helps the tater tots become crispy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, diced ham, chopped onion, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well mixed. This is where the flavors start to meld together!
- Gently fold in 1 lb of tater tots into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Be careful not to break them apart too much.
- Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour the ham and tater tot mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top the casserole with the remaining tater tots, arranging them in a single layer for even cooking. Then, sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on top. This will create a delicious cheesy crust!
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the tater tots to be golden brown and the casserole to be bubbly.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help everything set a little better.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cheesy Ham and Tater Tot Casserole
This Cheesy Ham and Tater Tot Casserole is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a few serving suggestions. Consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also add some spices like black pepper or garlic powder to the mixture for an extra kick. For a twist, try using different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, to change the flavor profile!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Ham and Tater Tot Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate it for a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the ham? If you prefer, you can use cooked ground beef or even shredded chicken as a substitute for the ham. This will give you a different flavor while still being delicious!
Can I freeze this casserole? Absolutely! After baking, let it cool completely, then cover and freeze. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
Enjoy this comforting tater tot casserole that’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Calories per Serving: Not specified
- Servings: 6-8
Cheesy Ham and Tater Tot Casserole
Equipment
- 9x13-inch casserole dish For baking the casserole.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs tater tots
- 26 oz cream of chicken soup gluten-free if needed
- 1 lb diced ham
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 12 oz shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, diced ham, chopped onion, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well mixed.
- Gently fold in 1 lb of tater tots into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour the ham and tater tot mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top the casserole with the remaining tater tots, arranging them in a single layer for even cooking. Then, sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on top.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the tater tots to be golden brown and the casserole to be bubbly.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.