The Art of Ultimate Ham and Tater Tot Casserole Perfection

Creamy Sauce Foundation Building

Master the technique of creating a rich, smooth, and flavorful cheese sauce base.

Perfect Ham Distribution

Learn the skill of evenly incorporating ham for balanced flavor in every bite.

Tater Tot Arrangement Mastery

Perfect the method of arranging tater tots for optimal crispiness and visual appeal.

Baking Temperature Control

Master the art of timing and temperature for perfectly cooked casserole throughout.

Cheese Melting Technique

Learn optimal cheese layering and timing for gooey, golden perfection.

Casserole Perfection Secrets for Ultimate Ham and Tater Tot Combination

Tater Tot Crispiness: Don't overlap tater tots - single layer ensures even browning and maximum crispiness.

Ham Options: Use leftover holiday ham, deli ham, or smoked ham for varied flavor profiles.

Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack or Swiss for unique flavors.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble casserole without tater tots, refrigerate, add tots before baking.

Vegetable Flexibility: Swap frozen vegetables based on preference or what's available in freezer.

Sauce Consistency: If mixture seems too thick, add extra milk; if too thin, reduce liquid slightly.

Ultimate Comfort Ham and Tater Tot Casserole with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Name: Ultimate Comfort Ham and Tater Tot Casserole with Creamy Cheese Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Ham Base:; 3 cups cooked ham, diced; 1 tablespoon butter; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; For the Creamy Sauce:; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; For the Cheese Layer:; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; For the Vegetable Mix:; 1 small onion, diced; 1 cup frozen corn; 1 cup frozen peas; 1/2 cup diced bell pepper; For the Tater Tot Topping:; 32 oz frozen tater tots; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; For the Seasoning:; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); For the Fresh Garnish:; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

The ultimate ham and tater tot casserole featuring tender chunks of savory ham, crispy golden tater tots, and a rich creamy cheese sauce. This beloved comfort food classic combines hearty ham with the irresistible crunch of perfectly baked tater tots and a velvety cheese sauce, creating an unforgettable family-friendly casserole that transforms simple ingredients into pure comfort food magic perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you crave the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and satisfying flavors.

Prep Time

15 Minutes

Cook Time

45 Minutes

Total Time

60 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Ham Base:

3 cups cooked ham, diced

1 tablespoon butter

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Sauce:

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

1 cup sour cream

1/2 cup whole milk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Cheese Layer:

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

For the Vegetable Mix:

1 small onion, diced

1 cup frozen corn

1 cup frozen peas

1/2 cup diced bell pepper

For the Tater Tot Topping:

32 oz frozen tater tots

2 tablespoons melted butter

1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Seasoning:

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Fresh Garnish:

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

2 green onions, sliced

For the Final Touch:

Cooking spray for pan

Aluminum foil for covering

For Special Equipment:

9x13 inch baking dish

Large mixing bowl

Wooden spoon

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F and spray 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.

In large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and cream of chicken soup.

Add sour cream and milk to soup mixture, stirring until smooth and combined.

Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to season sauce.

Fold in diced ham, ensuring pieces are evenly distributed throughout mixture.

Add diced onion, frozen corn, frozen peas, and bell pepper to mixture.

Stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and all mozzarella cheese.

Pour ham and cheese mixture evenly into prepared baking dish.

Spread mixture into even layer, smoothing top with spatula.

Arrange frozen tater tots in single layer covering entire casserole surface.

Brush tater tots with melted butter and sprinkle with paprika.

Cover baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.

Bake covered for 30 minutes until mixture is bubbly around edges.

Remove foil and sprinkle remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheese over tots.

Continue baking uncovered for 15-20 minutes until tots are golden and crispy.

Check that internal temperature reaches 165°F and cheese is melted.

Remove from oven and let casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and sliced green onions.

Cut into portions and serve hot while tater tots are still crispy.

Store leftovers covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Ultimate Comfort Ham and Tater Tot Casserole with Creamy Cheese Sauce

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Ultimate Ham and Tater Tot Casserole Perfection

Ultimate Comfort Ham and Tater Tot Casserole with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Ingredients

Instructions