Ham Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish suitable for any occasion. Its rich flavors and comforting qualities make it a favorite among families, guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds. With its simple and quick preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a satisfying meal in no time.
Casseroles have long been a staple in many households, offering a convenient way to bring together hearty ingredients in one dish. If you enjoy making casseroles, you’ll love experimenting with other flavorful options like Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole or Pork Chop Casserole, each offering its unique twist on this classic comfort food.
So, whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner solution or searching for new meal ideas to add to your repertoire, give Ham Casserole a try and discover the joy of simple, satisfying meals that bring families together.
Ingredients:
- Butter: Opt for unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Flour: All-purpose flour is recommended for achieving the desired consistency.
- Milk: Whole milk is required to create a creamy base for the casserole.
- Cheese: Both grated Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses are used to add richness and flavor.
- Mustard: Serves as a binder to enhance the seasoning of the meat.
- Pepper: Adds a touch of seasoning and flavor to the dish.
- Corn: Whole corn kernels, drained, provide a sweet and crunchy texture.
- Noodles: Wide egg noodles are the preferred choice for this recipe.
- Ham: Leftover ham works wonderfully to infuse the casserole with savory goodness.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are used for their crispiness and texture.
- Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and comforting Ham Casserole that’s perfect for any occasion.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make Ham Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir continuously until it thickens and forms a paste-like consistency.
- Slowly pour in the heated milk while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Allow the mixture to come to a boil, then add the grated Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, as well as the mustard and pepper. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat.
- Grease a 9×7-inch casserole dish with cooking spray (such as Pam).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, drained corn, diced ham, and cheese sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the noodle mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- In another bowl, mix the melted butter, Panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese until combined.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Ham Casserole as a comforting and satisfying meal!
What to serve with ham casserole?
There are numerous options to accompany this ham casserole, providing a range of flavors and textures to complement the dish. Consider serving it with a refreshing side salad comprising fresh greens and assorted vegetables. Alternatively, roast or cook up a variety of vegetables such as green beans, potatoes, corn, peas, or any other preferred veggies. However, this recipe is quite satisfying on its own, so you might find that a side dish isn’t necessary!
What is the best ham to use?
When selecting ham for this recipe, you have the flexibility to choose whichever type you prefer. However, for optimal flavor, I recommend using honey ham or smoked ham. These varieties add a delightful smokiness or sweetness to the casserole, enhancing its overall taste and making it even more delicious.
FAQs
- What can I serve with ham casserole?
- Ham casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or steamed broccoli. These options complement the rich flavors of the casserole and provide a balanced meal.
- Can I use different types of cheese in the casserole?
- Absolutely! While the recipe calls for grated Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese based on your preferences. Swiss, Gouda or Monterey Jack cheese can also add delicious flavor to the dish.
- Can I make ham casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, ham casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the covering and bake as directed in the recipe, adding a few extra minutes to account for the chilled ingredients.
- Can I freeze ham casserole for later?
- Yes, ham casserole freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven until heated through.
- Can I substitute the ham with other proteins?
- Certainly! While ham adds a distinct flavor to the casserole, you can easily substitute it with cooked chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose to ensure it’s fully heated through.
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- To make a gluten-free version of ham casserole, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that all other ingredients, such as the noodles and breadcrumbs, are certified gluten-free. This modification allows individuals with gluten sensitivities or allergies to enjoy this delicious dish without any worries.
- Can I add additional vegetables to the casserole?
- Absolutely! Ham casserole is versatile, and you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add extra vegetables such as peas, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to enhance the nutritional value and add more color and texture to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the vegetables are cooked to your liking.
- What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
- Reheating ham casserole is easy and can be done in the oven or microwave. For the oven method, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil, and bake until heated through, typically around 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions can be reheated in the microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking periodically until heated to the desired temperature.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ham Casserole offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make it a perfect choice for any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or as part of a holiday feast, this comforting dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. With its simple preparation and versatile ingredients, it’s easy to see why ham casserole has remained a beloved favorite in households for generations.
So, the next time you need a satisfying and hearty meal, give this Ham Casserole recipe a try. From its creamy cheese sauce to the savory bites of ham and tender noodles, each mouthful is a delicious reminder of the joy of homemade comfort food. Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.