Ham and Noodle Casserole with Leftover Ham

Leftover ham holds a special place in the hearts of many home cooks. It not only represents delicious meals shared with family, but it also opens the door to endless culinary possibilities. One of the most beloved creations using leftover ham is the ham and noodle casserole. This comforting dish transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying and hearty meal.

As a child, nothing made the holidays more memorable than the aroma of a glazed ham cooking in the oven. The leftovers inevitably turned into a scrumptious casserole that delighted everyone at the table. The combination of tender egg noodles, creamy soup, and melty cheese, all enveloping diced ham, brings nostalgia with every bite.

Ham and noodle casserole is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavors, making it a standout option for comfort food. The best part? You can whip it up quickly and enjoy a warm, delicious meal without much hassle, letting you spend more time with family and friends.

Part 1 — Ham and Noodle Casserole Fundamentals

Fundamentals

The foundation of any great casserole begins with quality ingredients. In this case, you’ll need diced ham, uncooked egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, onion, frozen peas, and butter. Each ingredient contributes to the delightful combination of flavors and textures that characterize a classic ham and noodle casserole.

Ham serves as the star of the dish, infusing it with a savory richness. You can use any variety of cooked ham, from a holiday centerpiece to deli scraps. Egg noodles provide a hearty base that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully. Cream of mushroom soup adds depth and creaminess, while shredded cheddar melts to create a golden crust. The addition of frozen peas adds color and a hint of sweetness, making this casserole not only delicious but visually appealing too.

Preparation/Setup

To ensure a seamless cooking experience, preparation is key. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures the casserole bakes evenly and the cheese melts beautifully.

Next, cook the egg noodles according to package directions, keeping them al dente. Drain them well to prevent a watery final product. While the noodles cook, finely chop the onion and sauté it in butter until softened. This process enhances the onion’s natural sweetness, which brings depth to the casserole.

Set aside both the drained noodles and the sautéed onions while you prepare the cream sauce. Combining these ingredients skillfully will bring your casserole to life.

Ingredients

• 3 cups diced cooked ham: This adds protein and acts as the main flavor in the casserole.
• 1 pound uncooked egg noodles: A hearty base that soaks up the cream sauce.
• 2 (10.75 ounce) cans cream of mushroom soup: The creamy foundation of the dish.
• 1 cup milk: Helps to thin out the soup for an even sauce consistency.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: For flavor and a golden top layer.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion: For a savory depth.
• 1 cup frozen peas: Adds sweetness and nutritional value.
• 2 tablespoons butter: For sautéing the onions and flavor enhancement.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• Optional toppings: Breadcrumbs, paprika, fresh parsley for extra texture and flavor.

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the egg noodles until al dente, then drain them well.
3. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the onions for 5-7 minutes until translucent.
4. In the same skillet, add the cream of mushroom soup and milk, stirring until smooth.
5. Heat the mixture until it’s warm and slightly simmering. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, diced ham, frozen peas, and cream sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly.
7. Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Top with the remaining cheese and any additional toppings if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Part 2 — Elevating Your Ham and Noodle Casserole

Technique

The beauty of a ham and noodle casserole lies in its simplicity. However, employing a few techniques can elevate the final result. For instance, consider using fresh herbs. Adding fresh parsley not only enhances flavor but also brightens the presentation.

You can also play with the cheese varieties. Mixing sharp and mild cheddar cheese can create a well-rounded flavor that appeals to everyone around the table. Additionally, consider adding spices or herbs such as garlic powder or thyme to the cream sauce for a unique twist.

Tips and Tricks

To take your casserole to the next level, incorporate these handy tips:

• Pre-cook the noodles: Ensuring your noodles are indeed al dente helps prevent mushiness. They’ll absorb the sauce while baking, resulting in the perfect texture.
• Let it rest: After removing the casserole from the oven, allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the casserole set, making it easier to serve.
• Double the batch: This casserole freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Simply double the recipe and freeze half for a hassle-free dinner on another night.

Part 3 — Perfecting Your Ham and Noodle Casserole

Perfecting Results

After mastering the basics, focus on refining the final dish. You want a balance of flavors and textures. Taste your cream sauce before combining it with the noodles; ensuring it’s seasoned just right will make a significant difference in the overall flavor of your casserole.

Additionally, using a variety of cheese types can elevate the cheddar flavor, creating a comforting yet complex cheesy experience.

Troubleshooting and Variations

If you run into issues during preparation, do not fret. If the casserole turns out too dry after baking, consider adding more milk to the cream sauce the next time. On the other hand, if it seems too creamy, reducing the amount of soup can make a difference.

Feel free to mix up the flavors with different vegetables. Spinach, corn, or bell peppers can add a unique twist to the traditional recipe. Always remember that cooking is about creativity, so let your tastes guide your variations.

Part 4 — Serving and Storing Your Ham and Noodle Casserole

Serving and Presentation

Serving your ham and noodle casserole can turn a simple meal into a delightful event. Use a bright, colorful dish to enhance the presentation. Garnishing with fresh parsley or baking it in a dish with festive decor can encourage a cozy gathering.

Slice servings appropriately, ensuring everyone gets their fair share of noodles, ham, and that gooey cheese. Pairing each plate with a crisp green salad can create a balanced meal.

Pairings and Storage

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad. Consider a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the meal. Alternatively, serving it with some roasted vegetables can add both flavor and nutrition.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through. If you have a larger portion, consider freezing it for future meals — just ensure it’s properly sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

Leftover ham transforms into a delectable ham and noodle casserole, bringing hearty comfort to any table. The blend of creamy soup, tender noodles, and melted cheese delivers both nostalgia and satisfaction in each bite. Whether prepared for a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish captures the essence of home-cooked comfort food. Its flexibility allows for endless variations while remaining true to the classic flavors that delight everyone. Embrace the joy of cooking with this recipe and watch your loved ones savor every mouthful.

Ham and Noodle Casserole

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A comforting casserole made with leftover ham, tender egg noodles, creamy soup, and melty cheese, perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups diced cooked ham
• 1 pound uncooked egg noodles
• 2 (10.75 ounce) cans cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: Breadcrumbs, paprika, fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the egg noodles until al dente, then drain them well.
3. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the onions for 5-7 minutes until translucent.
4. In the same skillet, add the cream of mushroom soup and milk, stirring until smooth.
5. Heat the mixture until it’s warm and slightly simmering. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, diced ham, frozen peas, and cream sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly.
7. Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Top with the remaining cheese and any additional toppings if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking for easier serving. This dish freezes well for later meals.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: casserole, ham, comfort food, leftovers, family meal