ham and noodle casserole recipe

ham and noodle casserole recipe

The Best ham and noodle casserole recipe

I’ve been making this ham and noodle casserole recipe for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s one of those comforting dishes that never fails to put a smile on everyone’s face. My family loves it, and I love how easy it is to make.

The combination of ham, noodles, and cheese is a match made in heaven. The best part is that it’s so versatile – you can serve it as a main course or use leftovers for a quick lunch. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and I’m excited to share it with you today.

The first time I made this casserole was at my grandmother’s house. She had received the recipe from her sister, who had gotten it from a friend who was an excellent cook. As soon as I took the dish out of the oven, the aroma wafting from the kitchen was irresistible.

My siblings and I couldn’t wait to dig in, and we all agreed that it was one of the best meals we’d ever had. As I started making this casserole for my own family, I realized just how much people love comfort food. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings us all together.

Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just need something easy to make on a weeknight, this casserole never fails to deliver. One thing that sets this recipe apart is the way the flavors meld together. The salty ham pairs perfectly with the rich cheese sauce, while the noodles add a nice texture contrast.

And let’s not forget the crispy breadcrumb topping – it adds a delightful crunch that takes this dish to the next level. If you’re looking for a recipe that will become a staple in your household, look no further. This ham and noodle casserole is sure to become one of your go-to options for any occasion.

Ham and Noodle Casserole

Ham and Noodle Casserole

4.5 from 1350 votes

A comforting and hearty casserole featuring tender noodles, savory ham, and a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for a family dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to please.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

8 oz wide egg noodles
1 cup diced ham
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3Add wide egg noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
4Strain the noodles and set aside.
5In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
6Add flour and stir to form a paste.
7Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture turns light brown.
8Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
9Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
10Stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
11Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
12Remove from heat.
13In a baking dish, combine cooked noodles and diced ham.
14Pour the cheese sauce over the noodles and ham, stirring to ensure everything is well coated.
15Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly, and the edges are slightly crispy.
16Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add frozen mixed vegetables to the casserole for extra nutrition. For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

This ham and noodle casserole is more than just a meal – it’s an experience that brings people together. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just need something easy to make on a weeknight, this recipe never fails to deliver.

One of my favorite things about this casserole is how well it reheats – simply pop it back in the oven until hot and bubbly. If you’re looking for storage ideas, consider freezing individual portions for later use or storing leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ham and Noodle Casserole

Q: What type of noodles should I use?

A: You can use either egg noodles or penne pasta – both work well in this recipe.

Q: Can I substitute chicken for ham?

A: Yes, you can use diced chicken breast or thighs if you prefer – just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Do I need to pre-cook the noodles before adding them to the casserole?

A: Yes, cook the noodles according to package instructions before adding them to the dish.

Q: Can I make this recipe without using breadcrumbs?

A: Yes, simply omit the breadcrumb topping if you’re not a fan – but trust me, it adds a nice crunch!

Q: How long does this casserole keep in the fridge?

A: You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge or freeze for up to two months.

Q: Can I add vegetables like carrots or peas to this recipe?

A: Absolutely – feel free to add any vegetables you like, but be aware that they may change the overall flavor profile.

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