If there’s one dish that’s sure to bring comfort to your table, it’s Cheesy Ham Casserole. This creamy, ooey-gooey bake is a delicious combination of tender ham, pasta, and melted cheese, all tied together with a savory sauce. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover ham from a holiday meal or simply craving a hearty dinner that the whole family will love, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and even easier to eat, it’s perfect for weeknights or potluck gatherings. Plus, who can resist the ultimate comfort food combination of pasta and cheese?
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this cozy Cheesy Ham Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, elbow macaroni, or shells work best)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy top)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
- ½ cup sautéed mushrooms
Instructions
Grab your apron, and let's make this comforting casserole!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the cheese sauce. Melt the butter in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux. Cook for about 1 minute, then slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until the mixture begins to thicken (about 3–5 minutes).
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and all the mozzarella cheese. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese is melted and you have a smooth, creamy sauce.
Combine the ingredients. In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, diced ham, and cheese sauce until everything is evenly coated. If you’re adding vegetables like peas or broccoli, mix them in at this stage.
Transfer to the baking dish. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top. For added crunch, scatter breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.
Bake. Place the casserole in the oven and bake, uncovered, for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Serving Suggestions
- Customize the Veggies: Swap out or add any vegetables your family loves. Try diced bell peppers, spinach, or even corn.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce.
- Leftovers Make It Better: This casserole reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
- Pairing Ideas: Serve this casserole with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal.
Cheesy Ham Casserole is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s indulgent yet simple and has just the right balance of savory flavors. Whether you're sharing it over a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to earn rave reviews. Try it tonight—you might just find it becomes one of your go-to comfort recipes!
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