Okay, friends, let’s talk comfort food. Real, stick-to-your-ribs, makes-you-feel-like-you’re-getting-a-hug-from-the-inside comfort food. I’m talking about my grandma’s **ham and Noodle Casserole**. It’s like the lasagna’s cozy cousin, but with a fraction of the effort. Seriously, this recipe is a lifesaver on those nights when you just want something warm, delicious, and easy. Growing up, this casserole was always a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and especially on those chilly autumn evenings. The aroma alone brings back a flood of wonderful memories. I’ve tweaked it over the years, but the heart of this recipe, the warm, creamy goodness, remains the same. You’ve *got* to try this; it will become a family favorite, I promise!
What is a ham and noodle casserole?
So, what exactly *is* **ham and Noodle Casserole**? Think of it as a creamy, savory hug in a dish. It’s essentially a baked pasta dish made with tender egg noodles, savory ham, a rich and creamy sauce, and often a delightful crispy topping. The name really says it all, doesn’t it? This isn’t some fancy, complicated dish, which is exactly why I love it so much. It’s straightforward, honest-to-goodness comfort food that anyone can make. It’s the kind of dish that’s been passed down through generations, each family adding their own little twist. I’ve seen versions with different cheeses, vegetables, and even spices, but the core concept remains the same: a warm, comforting, and satisfying casserole.
Why do I love this recipe?
Okay, let me tell you *exactly* why you’re going to fall in love with this **ham and noodle casserole**. First and foremost, the flavor is incredible. You’ve got the saltiness of the ham perfectly balanced by the creamy sauce and the comforting texture of the noodles. The crispy topping (if you choose to add one – and you should!) adds a delightful crunch that elevates the whole dish. It’s truly a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more. But beyond the taste, this recipe is unbelievably simple to make. Seriously, even if you’re a beginner cook, you can nail this. There’s no complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. It’s a one-pot wonder that practically cooks itself. What I love most about this is how incredibly cost-effective it is. Ham is often on sale after holidays, making this a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. I’ve made this with leftover holiday ham many times. Plus, you can easily customize it to use up whatever veggies you have on hand. Finally, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a main course, a side dish, or even pack it for lunch the next day. It’s the perfect all-around recipe that ticks all the boxes. My kids ask for this all the time, and that’s really saying something!
How do you make a ham and noodle casserole?
Quick Overview
Making this **ham and noodle casserole** is easier than you might think! You’ll start by cooking the noodles and preparing the creamy sauce. Then, you’ll combine everything in a baking dish, add your ham, and bake until bubbly and golden. The best part? It’s mostly hands-off cooking. Once it’s in the oven, you’re free to relax and let the magic happen. The recipe is simple enough to execute in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The key is to not overcook the noodles; they should be slightly underdone, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
Ingredients
For the Main Casserole: For a
* 1 pound egg noodles: I prefer the wide ones, but any kind will do. Make sure you cook them al dente!
* 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 beautifully.
* 4 cups milk: Whole milk will give you the richest sauce, but 2% works too. I even tested this with almond milk once, and it was surprisingly creamy!
* 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste, especially depending on how salty your ham is.
* 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground is always best for flavor.
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Just a pinch adds a warm, cozy flavor. Don’t skip this!
* 2 cups cooked ham, cubed: Leftover holiday ham is perfect for this.
* 1 cup frozen peas: Adds a pop of color and freshness.
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, in my opinion.
For the Topping (Optional):
* 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers: Adds a buttery, salty crunch. * 2 tablespoons of melted butter: Serves 8-10. How do you bind crackers together?
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I always use a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Do you want them to be mushy? Drain well and set aside.
Step 3: Make the 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. Serve warm or cold. What is the best way to make lumpy sauce?
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Remove from heat and stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. I always add a little extra pepper, because I love kicking things up.
Step 5: Combine Everything
In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, ham, peas, and cheese. Set aside. Pour the sauce over the noodle mixture and stir to combine.
Step 6: Add Topping (Optional)
If using, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter in a small bowl. Set aside. Sprinkle over casserole.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is firm. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Step 8: Cool Slightly and Serve
Let the ham and noodle casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken. How do you thicken How do I prevent my mouth from burning when I eat it warm?
What should I serve it with?
This **ham and noodle casserole** is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a simple weeknight dinner, I often serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad. The freshness of the vegetables helps to balance out the richness of the casserole.
If you’re serving it for a more special occasion, consider pairing it with some crusty bread or rolls. This is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce on your plate. A fruit salad or compote also makes a refreshing addition to the meal.
My family also loves having this with some roasted asparagus or Green Beans. The slight char from the roasting adds a lovely depth of flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different combinations to find what you like best. This casserole is incredibly versatile, so the possibilities are endless!
How do I make a perfect ham and noodle casserole?
Okay, friends, I’ve made this **ham and noodle casserole** *a lot* over the years, so I have picked up some recipes. What are some tricks along the way?Noodle Selection: WhatWhile wide egg noodles are my favorite, don’t be afraid to experiment with different shapes and sizes. What are some good substitutes for rotini in this recipe? Just make sure you adjust the cooking time accordingly.Sauce Consistency:What makes a perfect casserole? If your sauce is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes until it thickens up.How do I prepareIf you’re using leftover ham, make sure to remove any excess fat or skin before cubing it. Can you use pre-cooked ham from the deli?Cheese Choice:While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. What are some good cheeses to use in a casserole?Topping Variations:If you’re not a fan of Ritz crackers, you can use breadcrumbs, crushed potato chips, or even Sour Cream. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for the topping. What you have on hand? Get creative!Baking Time:What is the best way to keep an eye on a casserole while it’s baking? How do you know if you have a golden brown wine?Vegetable AdditionCan you add other vegetables to this casserole? What are some good substitutes for sautéed mushrooms? What are the tips I’ve learned along the way, trust me, you’ll be making this better each time.
What are some tips for Storing and Reheating
What is a good ham and noodle casserole?Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving the casserole at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible.
Refrigerator Storage: WhatCan you store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days? Make sure it’s completely cooled before storing it to prevent condensation from forming.Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat the casserole, you can either microwave it in individual portions or bake it in the oven. If baking, cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
Glaze Timing: If you’re planning to freeze the casserole, I recommend adding the topping after it’s been thawed and reheated. This will help prevent it from getting soggy. This trick is one of the biggest tips i can give you, you dont want the cracker topping to be soggy when you freeze it and bring it back out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my family’s favorite **ham and noodle casserole** recipe. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a memory, a tradition, and a symbol of comfort. I truly believe that everyone should have a go-to casserole recipe in their repertoire, and this one is definitely a winner. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and incredibly delicious. If you love this type of cozy comfort food, you should also try my creamy chicken and rice casserole, you won’t be disappointed!
I really hope you’ll give this recipe a try. I know you and your family will love it as much as we do. And hey, if you do make it, be sure to leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out! I’d love to hear your thoughts and any variations you might have tried. Happy cooking!
Ham and Noodle Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup egg noodles
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook noodles according to package directions.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, ham, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir until well combined.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
