Best Leftover Ham and Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Best Leftover Ham and Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty meal. Perfect for using up leftover ham, it combines creamy soup, crispy tater tots, and melted cheese for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds frozen tater tots
- 26 ounces chicken cream soup
- 1 pound diced ham
- 1/4 cup onions, chopped
- 12 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken cream soup, diced ham, chopped onions, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 pound of frozen tater tots. Stir well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Transfer the mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.
- Step 3: Arrange the remaining 1 pound of tater tots evenly over the casserole mixture. Then evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the tater tots.
- Step 4: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. It is ready when the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
- Step 5: Before serving, confirm all ingredients are gluten-free if needed for dietary reasons. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra layer of flavor, try mixing in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers with the ham and onions.
- Use your favorite type of shredded cheese or a blend for different tastes and textures.
- Swap chicken cream soup for mushroom or celery cream soup for a variation in flavor.
- Make sure to thaw the tater tots slightly if your oven heat is inconsistent to ensure even cooking.
Storage
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy on top, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the tater tots crispy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes, you can use diced and par-cooked fresh potatoes, but keep in mind that the texture will be different and cooking times may vary.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble but do not bake, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
PrintBest Leftover Ham and Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
A comforting and easy-to-make casserole that uses leftover ham and crispy tater tots, combined with creamy chicken soup and cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a hearty family meal with a crispy, cheesy topping and flavorful filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds frozen tater tots
- 26 ounces gluten-free chicken cream soup
- 1 pound diced ham
- 1/4 cup onions, chopped
- 12 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Prepare the Casserole Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free cream of chicken soup, diced ham, chopped onion, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 pound of frozen tater tots. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well mixed and evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Coat a casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Transfer the combined mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it out to create an even layer. This will serve as the hearty base for your casserole.
- Add Tater Tot Topping: Place the remaining 1 pound of frozen tater tots evenly on top of the casserole mixture. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese uniformly over the tater tots for a cheesy topping.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes. The casserole is done when the tater tots on top are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
- Ensure Ingredients are Gluten-Free: Before serving, double-check that all ingredients used, especially the soup and any pre-packaged toppings, are gluten-free. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your comforting dish!
Notes
- Make sure to use gluten-free cream of chicken soup to keep the casserole gluten-free.
- For extra flavor, you can add herbs such as thyme or parsley to the mixture.
- Leftover ham works best if diced into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
- The casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; bake just before serving.
- To verify gluten-free ingredients, always check product labels carefully.
Keywords: leftover ham casserole, tater tot casserole, gluten free casserole, easy dinner recipes, cheddar cheese casserole, baked tater tots
