ham cheese casserole recipe

ham cheese casserole recipe

The Best ham cheese casserole recipe

I’ve been making this ham cheese casserole recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and satisfies my kids’ love for cheese and meat. The original recipe comes from my grandmother, who got it from her mother.

She would often make it for special occasions, like holidays and family gatherings. I remember helping her in the kitchen, learning the techniques, and watching her expertly assemble the dish. As I grew older, I started experimenting with different variations, adding my own twist to make it more convenient for busy weeknights.

My family loves this casserole because it’s a hearty, filling meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a quick dinner after school. The combination of flavors is incredible – the sweetness of the cheese, the saltiness of the ham, and the savory taste of the breadcrumbs all come together to create a truly satisfying experience. Over time, I’ve refined my technique to ensure that every serving is just as delicious as the first one.

One key technique I’ve learned is to cook the casserole slowly in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This makes all the difference in terms of texture and flavor. Another crucial step is to let it rest before slicing – this allows the juices to redistribute throughout the dish.

I’ve found that by doing so, every bite tastes like a symphony of flavors. This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, and I’m proud to share it with you today.

Ham Cheese Casserole

Ham Cheese Casserole

4.8 from 1060 votes

A comforting and flavorful casserole featuring layers of ham, cheese, and a creamy sauce. Perfect for a hearty meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

2 cups cooked ham, diced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup elbow macaroni, cooked
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
3In the mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and milk.
4Whisk until smooth.
5Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
6Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the sauce and stir until well coated.
7Spread the macaroni mixture evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
8Layer the diced ham evenly over the macaroni mixture.
9Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the ham, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese.
10Ensure the cheese is evenly distributed.
11Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
12Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
13The top should be lightly golden.
14Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Baking dish
Mixing bowl
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. You can also top with chopped green onions or parsley for added freshness.

Watch Video Of How Ham Cheese Casserole Works

This ham cheese casserole recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.

The best part is how easy it is to customize based on your preferences and dietary needs.

You can easily double or triple the recipe if needed – just remember to adjust your baking time accordingly if you’re making larger batches.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ham Cheese Casserole

Q: What type of cheese should I use?

For this ham cheese casserole recipe, you can use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Cheddar provides a sharp, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of mozzarella.

Q: Can I substitute other types of protein?

Yes, you can substitute other types of protein like bacon or sausage for the ham.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?

To prevent dryness, make sure to not overcook the casserole and add some extra moisture by mixing in some chopped onions or bell peppers.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat at room temperature until warm.

Q: What are some variations on this recipe?

You can add some diced tomatoes or spinach to give it an extra flavor boost or try using different types of cheese like parmesan or gouda.

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