Cheesy hash Browns and SPAM Casserole

If you are here, I suspect you already love SPAM or want to give it a try. This delicious Cheesy Hash Browns and Spam Casserole recipe will not disappoint! 

This has all of the elements of a warm comfort meal and is so easy to make. Get out that can of SPAM and a few other simple ingredients to make this wonderful family-friendly hotdish! 

🍖 What makes this recipe special?

SPAM is a product that should just not be overlooked and this is what reall makes this dish special. A comfort meal with SPAM that everybody in the family will like. 

Not only does it feature SPAM, but it also has a list of super easy ingredients. From frozen hash browns, shredded cheese, and corn for some veggies to crunchy potato chips for the top – this meal ticks off all of the boxes. Oh… did you know there is a SPAM museum? For real. 

I am no stranger to comforting casseroles. Check out this Minnesota Tater Tot Hotdish recipe or this Chicken Chow Mein Hotdish for some other great family meals. No matter what you make, make sure to treat yourself! 

🧀 Ingredients

SPAM is the star here, but it takes some other ingredients. Here is what you will need:

• Frozen hash browns
• SPAM
• Cheddar Cheese
• Canned Corn
• Salt & Pepper
• Cayenne Powder
• Whole Milk
• Salted Butter
• Potato Chips

See the recipe card for quantities.

🍲 Instructions

This is an easy-peasy recipe. Start off your Cheesy Hash Browns and Spam Casserole by preheating your oven to 375° Fahrenheit. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the frozen hash browns, diced SPAM, a cup and a quarter of shredded cheddar cheese, drained corn, and seasonings—salt, pepper, and an optional dash of cayenne for those who like a bit of a kick. Once mixed, spread this hearty mixture into a 9×13 baking dish.

Next, evenly pour the whole milk over your hash brown mix, ensuring every nook and cranny gets a bit. Dot the surface with butter cubes, spaced out evenly. 

Bake on the middle rack of your oven, uncovered for an hour. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese over the top, then add a layer of crumbled potato chips for an irresistible crunch. 

Pop it back into the oven for another ten minutes. This final touch adds a textural contrast that makes this casserole not just a meal, but an experience. Remove from the oven and serve!

🤷 Substitutions and variations

Not into SPAM? Go ahead and swap it out with cooked chicken, ground beef, hot dogs, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Cheese-wise, cheddar is great, but feel free to play around with mozzarella, gouda, or any vegan cheese that melts well.

There are several different kinds of SPAM that can change up these flavors. Everything from low sodium SPAM to bacon flavored SPAM can be used. I use traditional SPAM.

For the veggies, corn is just a starting point. Feel like changing it up? Throw in peas, chopped bell peppers, or whatever’s in your fridge. Milk can easily be switched for any non-dairy alternative like almond or soy milk, adjusting the dish to dietary needs or preferences.

Lastly, if potato chips aren’t your thing or you’re looking for a different crunch, breadcrumbs, cracker crumbs, or even panko can offer a delightful texture. This recipe is all about making it your own, so tweak away!

📦 Storage

If you have leftovers, you sure can store this. Let the casserole cool to room temperature. This step is crucial to prevent moisture buildup, which can make the top layer soggy.

Once cooled, transfer the casserole into an airtight container or tightly wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This casserole can be refridgerated for up to 3-4 days. 

If you’re looking ahead and want to save some for later, this casserole freezes beautifully. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container or wrapped securely to fend off freezer burn. 

When the craving hits, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven or microwave until it’s heated through. This way, the Cheesy Hash Browns and Spam Casserole can bring warmth and comfort to your table even on the busiest of days.

🎓 History tidbit

SPAM, the iconic canned meat product, has a rich history that dates back to 1937 when it was introduced by Hormel Foods Corporation in Minnesota. Its creation was driven by the need for a shelf-stable meat product that could be easily stored and transported without refrigeration. 

SPAM, made primarily from ham and pork shoulder, quickly became a staple in American households due to its versatility and convenience.

During World War II, SPAM gained legendary status as it was shipped overseas to feed Allied troops, providing a quick source of protein in challenging conditions. 

Its ease of distribution and long shelf life made it an invaluable resource during the war. This period solidified SPAM’s place in culinary history, as it became a symbol of American ingenuity and support for the troops.

Post-war, SPAM continued to thrive, becoming a global phenomenon. It holds a special place in the cuisine of many countries, including South Korea and the Philippines, where it has been embraced and incorporated into local dishes. Or the state of Hawaii, which sells the most SPAM of all states.

Today, SPAM remains a beloved product, celebrated for its unique taste and cultural significance. Its history reflects the changes in American food consumption.

❓ FAQ

📝 Tips and tricks

• Leave out Cayenne powder if wanted.
• I use whole milk, but anything from skim to heavy cream will work.
• I also tried frozen diced potatoes and that worked ok.
• I use hot sauce on this recipe.

🛠 Products used in this recipe

• 9×13 Le Creuset Baking Dish
• SPAM

😋 Did you make this recipe?

That is awesome, and thank you so much for giving this Cheesy Hash Browns with SPAM Casserole recipe a try. If you could leave a rating in the comment area below, it would be greatly appreciated. This lets me know how I am doing and also helps others decide if they want to make this recipe. Most of all, thanks for visiting Ramshackle Pantry.