I have been making ham and cheese casserole for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. My kids love it when I make it for dinner, and my husband requests it often. It’s one of those recipes that just feels like home to me.
The combination of the savory ham, the melted cheese, and the crunchy breadcrumbs on top is just perfect. And the best part is that it’s so easy to make! I can have it ready in about 30 minutes, which is a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
The first time I made this recipe, I was skeptical – I had never really been a fan of casseroles before. But this one won me over with its simplicity and flavor. Now, it’s one of my go-to recipes for when I need to feed a crowd.
And the leftovers are always devoured quickly too! My kids are picky eaters, but they love this dish. They ask for it all the time, and I’m happy to oblige because it’s just that good.
It’s also a great way to get some veggies into them – I sneak shredded carrots into the mix without them even noticing! The real key to making this recipe shine is using high-quality ingredients. Don’t skimp on the cheese or the ham – it makes all the difference in the flavor department.
And don’t overmix the batter either – you want it to be nice and smooth so that everything cooks evenly.
Ham and Cheese Casserole
4.9 from 958 votes
A hearty and comforting casserole with tender pasta, savory ham, and melted cheese in a creamy sauce. This easy dish is perfect for using leftover ham and makes a satisfying weeknight dinner.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat, then add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
4In the same pot over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter, then whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and lightly golden.
5Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
6Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 3 to 4 minutes, then remove from heat.
7Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
8Add 1 and 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and all of the Parmesan, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
9Add the cooked macaroni and diced ham to the cheese sauce, stirring gently until everything is evenly coated.
10Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
11In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
12Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
13Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
14Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduce the cheese by half. You can also add steamed broccoli or peas for extra vegetables.
Watch Video Of How Ham and Cheese Casserole Works
This ham and cheese casserole is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special dish for family gatherings.
It’s easy to make ahead of time and reheat as needed too!
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it as is or add some extra toppings like diced veggies or chopped herbs.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ham and Cheese Casserole
What type of cheese should I use in this recipe?
Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can also use mozzarella or a blend of different cheeses if you prefer. Just be sure to use something that melts well so that your casserole turns out creamy and delicious.
Can I use leftover ham in this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use leftover ham in place of fresh ham if you have some on hand. Just be sure to chop it up finely so that it mixes in evenly with the other ingredients.
How do I prevent my casserole from becoming too dry?
Make sure to not overbake your casserole – you want it to be nice and golden brown on top but still moist inside. Also, don’t skip out on adding enough cheese – it helps keep everything together!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble this casserole up to a day in advance if you like. Just refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it off.
What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can substitute crushed crackers or even crushed potato chips if you don’t have any breadcrumbs on hand.
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