Cheesy Ham and Bacon Potato Bake

When I first moved out on my own, my cooking skills were limited to making boxed mac and cheese and scrambled eggs. Then one winter evening, a friend brought over a warm, gooey potato casserole packed with chunks of ham and crispy bacon. It was love at first bite. Since then, this dish—now lovingly known as my “Cheesy Ham and Bacon Potato Bake”—has become a staple in my kitchen.

Whether you’re a college student in a tiny apartment or a busy parent looking for a foolproof crowd-pleaser, this dish checks all the boxes: minimal effort, maximum flavor, and it’s impossible to mess up. If you’re new to cooking, this easy sheet pan dinner is your gateway to comfort food success.

Why This Recipe is Special

What makes this dish shine is how it combines simple ingredients to create a layered, crave-worthy experience. It’s creamy, salty, and cheesy with pops of savory ham and smoky bacon in every bite. Best of all, it requires zero knife skills if you opt for pre-diced ingredients. You throw everything into a bowl, mix it up, and bake—no need to hover over a stove. It’s a quick and healthy meal option too, especially when paired with a light salad or roasted veggies.

This recipe is a twist on the classic “funeral potatoes” but jazzed up with ham and bacon to make it hearty enough for a main dish.

Ingredients and Preparation

Diced Potatoes (Frozen or Fresh)
This is the starchy foundation that absorbs all the creamy, cheesy goodness. Frozen diced hash browns work perfectly, but you can use boiled fresh potatoes too.

Cream of Chicken Soup
Adds creaminess and depth. It’s the flavor glue that ties the dish together. You can swap it with cream of mushroom or a homemade white sauce.

Sour Cream
Provides tanginess and creaminess. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a lighter version.

Butter (Melted)
Adds richness and helps blend the creamy elements. If you’re cutting down on dairy, olive oil can be used, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Cheddar Cheese (Shredded)
The star of the show. Sharp cheddar is ideal for flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for variation.

Diced Ham
Brings savory, meaty bites that make the dish more filling. Turkey or chicken can be used if you’re not a fan of pork.

Cooked Bacon (Crumbled)
Adds a smoky crunch and salty contrast. For a vegetarian option, use smoked paprika or roasted mushrooms.

Green Onions
Gives a fresh, slightly spicy kick that balances the richness. Chives or red onions work too.

Seasonings: Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Minced Onion, Salt, Pepper
These pantry staples create a flavor base that ties everything together. Customize to taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.

Step 2 In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, minced onion, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Step 3 Add the diced potatoes, shredded cheese (reserving a small handful for topping), diced ham, crumbled bacon, and green onions to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly until the potatoes are evenly coated.

Step 4 Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling and the top is beginning to brown.

Step 5 Remove from the oven, sprinkle the reserved cheese on top, and return to the oven for another 10 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and golden.

Step 6 Let it cool for about 5–10 minutes before serving, allowing the layers to set slightly for easier scooping.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Don’t worry if you overcook the top a little—it just adds more crispy bits. If the dish browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil partway through baking.
• Use pre-cooked or store-bought diced ham and bacon to save time.
• If using fresh potatoes, make sure to parboil them first so they cook through evenly in the oven.
• No cream of chicken soup? Mix 1 cup milk with 2 tablespoons flour and a bouillon cube or broth concentrate as a homemade substitute.
• To cut cleanup time, mix everything in the baking dish instead of using a separate bowl.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is quite rich and filling, so pairing it with lighter sides helps create a balanced meal. Try:

• A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette
• Steamed broccoli or green beans
• A side of apple slaw for contrast and crunch

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave. It also freezes well—just thaw before reheating.

Conclusion

If you’re searching for a recipe that’s practically foolproof, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to make your kitchen smell like a dream, this cheesy ham and bacon potato bake is it. It’s one of those quick and healthy meals (well, healthier than ordering takeout!) that turns humble ingredients into something magical.

I’d love for you to give it a try and let me know how it turns out. Did you add your own twist? Maybe a different cheese or some spicy sausage? Drop your version in the comments—I’m always excited to hear how others make this easy sheet pan dinner their own. Happy cooking!

FAQ About Cheesy Ham and Bacon Potato Bake

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