Is it a chilly evening? Where is this blog?What is a ham and noodle casseroleIs this a casserole? Is it the kind that reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen, filled with love and the aroma of something? What is the best way It’s similar to mac and cheese in its comforting simplicity, but the added ham and creamy sauce just makes it more flavorful. elevate it to another level. My kids request this ALL the time, especially when the weather turns cold. Is this a family favorite?

What is a ham and noodle casserole?

What is a ham and noodle casserole is essentially a creamy, cheesy Pasta Bake featuring tender egg noodles and savory ham. Think of it as the grown-up version of mac and cheese, but way more satisfying. It’s essentially comfort food at its finest. The name pretty much says it all: ham, noodles, casserole! It’s a classic dish, often found at potlucks and family gatherings. It’s hearty, it’s flavorful, and it’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. And honestly, it’s much easier to make than it sounds. I remember being intimidated the first time, but it’s now a regular in our dinner rotation.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What are some good reasons to love this movie?What is a ham and noodle casserole! First off, the flavor is incredible. The combination of creamy cheese sauce, salty ham, and tender noodles is just divine. It’s the kind of flavor that makes you want to curl up on the couch and enjoy every single bite. Second, it’s surprisingly easy to make. Seriously, this is one of those recipes that comes together in a snap. Even on busy weeknights, I can whip this up without breaking a sweat. What I love most about this recipe is its cost-effectiveness. Ham can be expensive, but using leftover holiday ham (Easter or Christmas) makes this a super budget-friendly meal. It’s also incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it to your liking by adding different veggies or cheeses. For instance, I sometimes toss in some peas or broccoli to add a bit of color and nutrition. I’ve also experimented with different cheeses, and Gruyere adds a really nice, nutty flavor. Plus, it’s kid-friendly. I’ve NEVER seen my kids devour anything as quickly as this casserole. It’s a total win-win!

How do you make a ham and noodle casserole?

Quick Overview

Making this What is a ham and noodle casserole is a breeze! You’ll start by cooking the noodles, then creating a creamy cheese sauce on the stovetop. Next, you’ll combine everything in a baking dish, top with extra cheese (because why not?), and bake until bubbly and golden brown. The best part? This recipe is super forgiving, so don’t worry about making any mistakes. It always turns out delicious! The key is to make sure your sauce is nice and thick before you bake it, that’s my biggest tip!

Ingredients

For the Casserole:
* 1 pound egg noodles: I always use the wide noodles, but you can use any kind you like. Make sure you cook them al dente, so they don’t get mushy in the oven.
* 4 tablespoons butter: Unsalted is best, so you can control the saltiness of the dish.
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the sauce. Make sure you whisk it in well to avoid any lumps.
* 3 cups milk: I usually use 2% milk, but you can use whole milk for an even creamier sauce. I’ve even tried it with almond milk (unsweetened, of course!) and it worked surprisingly well!
* 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste.
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best!
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: This adds a warm, subtle flavor that complements the cheese.
* 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: I like to use a sharp cheddar for the best flavor, but you can use any cheese you like. A blend of cheddar and Gruyere is also delicious.
* 2 cups diced cooked ham: Leftover holiday ham is perfect for this! You can also use deli ham, but I find that the flavor isn’t quite as good. I like to dice my ham into small pieces, so it distributes evenly throughout the casserole.
* 1/2 cup bread crumbs (optional): Panko bread crumbs add a nice crispy topping, but they’re totally optional.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. I always use a glass baking dish for casseroles. This will prevent the casserole from sticking. I feel like they bake more evenly.

Step 2: Cook Noodles

Cook egg noodles according to package directions. Be sure to cook them al dente – slightly undercooked – because they’ll continue to bake in the oven. How do you drain noodles and set aside?

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes. What is the secret to a creamy, lump-free sauce?

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the sugar, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add the shredded cheese, one cup at a time, stirring until melted. Make sure all the cheese is melted before moving on to the next step.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add cooked noodles and diced ham to the cheese sauce and stir until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If you like a little heat, you can add tamari or cayenne pepper.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

The noodle mixture should be spread evenly in a baking dish. Pour into the prepared dish and bake for 10 minutes. If you’re using bread crumbs, sprinkle them over the top. I like to drizzle a little butter over the bread crumbs for extra crispness.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is smooth. Let the casserole cool completely before serving. This will allow the cheese to set up a bit, making it easier to slice.

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Let the casserole cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. What is the best way to keep cheese from burning your mouth?

What should I serve it with?

This What are the best ham and noodle casserole is pretty hearty on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of sides. For a simple weeknight meal, I like to serve it with a side salad or some steamed veggies. A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole. If you’re serving it for brunch, consider pairing it with a fresh fruit salad or a side of bacon. For a more elegant presentation, you can garnish the casserole with fresh parsley or chives. As a cozy snack, there’s nothing better than a side of garlic bread! It’s also fantastic served with a simple side of Green Beans or roasted asparagus. Honestly, this casserole is so versatile, you can serve it with just about anything. My family tradition is to have it with a simple side of coleslaw – something about the creamy casserole and the cool, crunchy slaw is just perfection!

How do I make a perfect ham and noodle casserole?

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Noodle Prep:Don’t overcook your noodles. Al dente is the key. Overcooked noodles will turn to mush in the oven, and nobody wants that. I always set a timer and check the noodles one minute before the recommended cooking time.

Cheese Choice: Experiment with different cheeses! Cheddar is classic, but Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a little bit of Parmesan can add a unique flavor. I once used pepper jack, and it gave the casserole a nice kick. But I think my favorite is a combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyere. It’s nutty, sharp, and melty – just perfect!

Ham Variations:Don’t be afraid to get creative with your ham! Can you use leftover holiday ham? Just make sure you dice it into small pieces, so it distributes evenly throughout the casserole. If you don’t have ham on hand, you can substitute cooked chicken or turkey. I used crumbled bacon in a pinch, and it was amazing!

Breadcrumb MagicWhat is the best way to toast bread crumbs? What is the best way to toast bread crumbs in a skillet over medium heat? Heat until golden brown. Remove from heat. How can I burn my hands? I also like to add a little Parmesan cheese to the bread crumbs for extra flavor.

Sauce Consistency: Make sure your sauce is thick enough! If the sauce is too thin, the casserole will be watery. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thin, you can add a little more flour, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.

Baking Savvy:How do you make a casserole when it’s bubbly and the topping is golden brown? Do not overbake noodles, or they will dry out. If the topping is browning too quickly, you can tent the casserole with foil. What are some of the best ways to keep an eye on an oven?

What are the Storing and Reheating Tips?

This What are the best ham and noodle casserole is great for making ahead or storing leftovers. Here’s what you need to know:

Refrigerator Storage: Let the casserole cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it is covered; I learned the hard way that leaving it open in the fridge dries it out fast!

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. You can also portion it out into individual servings for easy thawing. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Don’t forget to label and date it! I always forget, and then I’m playing a guessing game in the freezer.

Reheating Options: To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may not be as crispy. If the casserole seems dry, you can add a splash of milk or cream before reheating. I’ve also reheated individual portions in a toaster oven; works like a charm!

Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the casserole, it’s best to add the bread crumb topping after thawing and before baking. This will prevent the topping from getting soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

I truly believe that this Ham and Noodle Casserole is the Ultimate Comfort Food! It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you’re craving something warm and comforting. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other casserole recipes. I have one for chicken pot pie and a fantastic breakfast casserole that you might enjoy! Happy cooking! Let me know how your casserole turns out in the comments below. I’d love to hear your variations and tips!