Ham Casserole
Ham Casserole
Reasons to try Ham Casserole
Ham casserole is a comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for family gatherings. It’s packed with flavor and can be put together in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover ham!
How to make Ham Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup breadcrumb topping
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: diced onion and bell pepper
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, cooked pasta, cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheese, and peas. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with breadcrumb topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
How to serve Ham Casserole
Serve the ham casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a side salad or some steamed vegetables. This dish is also great for leftovers, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch!
How to store Ham Casserole
To store ham casserole, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Tips to make Ham Casserole
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach.
- For a extra cheesy flavor, mix in some mozzarella along with the cheddar.
- If you like a bit of crunch, try mixing some crushed crackers with your breadcrumbs for the topping.
Variation
You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the ham with cooked lentils or chickpeas and using vegetable broth in place of the cream of mushroom soup.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. What kind of pasta is best for ham casserole?
Any short pasta works well, like elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini.
3. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas, but make sure to blanch them before mixing them in to ensure they cook properly in the casserole.
Ham Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced Use leftover ham for best results.
- 2 cups cooked pasta Any short pasta like elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini works well.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup Can be substituted with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- 1 cup milk Use any milk of your choice.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice) Mix in mozzarella for an extra cheesy flavor.
- 1 cup frozen peas Fresh peas can also be used if blanched before cooking.
- 1 cup breadcrumb topping Crushed crackers can be mixed for crunch.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
- optional diced onion and bell pepper Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, cooked pasta, cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheese, and peas. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with breadcrumb topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
