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Ham & Cheese Casserole

Ham & Cheese Casserole
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A warm, comforting Ham & Cheese Casserole combining tender pasta, savory ham, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Quick to prepare and ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish is adaptable, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked ham, diced
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 3 cups pasta (elbow macaroni or penne)
  • 2 cups milk (warm)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (warm)
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder or 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Topping

  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for mixing with bread crumbs)

Variations (Optional Add-ins)

  • 1 cup chopped broccoli, peas, or carrots (for vegetable boost)
  • Alternative cheeses such as Gruyere, mozzarella, or Swiss
  • Red pepper flakes or hot sauce (for spicy kick)
  • Cauliflower rice or spiralized veggies (for low carb version)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta and Ham: Boil pasta until just al dente to keep it firm after baking. Drain well and set aside. Dice the cooked ham into bite-sized pieces for even distribution in the casserole.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour to create a roux. Gradually add the warm milk and cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens smoothly. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and mustard powder or Dijon mustard to enhance flavor.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, diced ham, and cheese sauce until everything is evenly coated and combined, ensuring each bite is creamy and flavorful.
  4. Transfer and Top: Grease a casserole dish and pour the mixture inside. If desired, sprinkle bread crumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese on top for a golden, crunchy crust.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden. Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving to set properly.

Notes

  • Use sharp, aged cheddar cheese for deeper flavor.
  • Do not overcook pasta; it should be slightly underdone to prevent mushiness after baking.
  • Season the cheese sauce gradually as ham and cheese already contain salt.
  • For extra crispy topping, mix bread crumbs with grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing for clean servings.

Nutrition

Keywords: Ham and cheese casserole, creamy casserole, comfort food, cheesy pasta bake, family dinner, easy casserole

Find it online: https://mydishez.com/ham-cheese-casserole/