Ham Casserole: 7 Comforting Reasons to Love This Dish

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Ham Casserole is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This delightful recipe features pasta, onion, broccoli, and smoked ham, all enveloped in a rich and creamy cheese sauce. Perfectly seasoned with garlic, thyme, and marjoram, it’s a dish that delights the senses and evokes feelings of home. If you’re looking for an easy and delicious comfort food option, this ham casserole is the one for you!

Why You’ll Love This Ham Casserole

This ham casserole is beloved for many reasons. First, it’s a quick ham casserole for weeknight meals, making it a lifesaver for busy families. Second, it combines the savory flavors of ham and cheese, creating a cheesy ham casserole that everyone loves. Third, it’s versatile, as you can easily adapt it to include leftover vegetables or different types of cheese. Fourth, this dish is a great way to use up leftover ham, transforming it into something delightful. Moreover, its creamy texture makes it a comfort food with ham that warms the soul. Lastly, with a preparation time of just 15 minutes, this easy ham casserole recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Enjoy the best ham casserole for dinner tonight!

Ingredients for Ham Casserole

Gather these items:

12 ounces cellentani pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried marjoram
½ teaspoon crushed rosemary
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2¼ cups whole milk, warmed to room temperature
2 cups broccoli florets cut into bite-sized pieces
2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reserve ½ cup for the top)
3-4 slices American cheese torn into small pieces (about 3 ounces)
2½ cups diced ham

How to Make Ham Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Boil the pasta al dente according to the package instructions, then drain well.
Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Cook the onion until soft. Reduce the heat to low and add the garlic, thyme, marjoram, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute while stirring.
Step 4: Melt the butter in the pot. Sprinkle in the flour and cook over low heat for 2 minutes while stirring. Slowly stir in the milk and simmer until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Add the broccoli to a microwavable bowl with ¼ cup of water. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and cut two small slits. Microwave on high for 2 minutes.
Step 6: Reduce the heat to low. Stir 2 cups shredded cheddar and American cheese into the pot in small increments. Add the pasta, broccoli, and ham to the casserole dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and stir to combine.
Step 7: Top with the reserved ½ cup cheddar cheese and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese on the top is melted and the casserole is heated through. Avoid overbaking.

Pro Tips for the Best Ham Casserole

Keep these in mind:

For added flavor, consider using smoked ham instead of regular ham.
Mix in some vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition.
Use a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
For a crispy topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.

Best Ways to Serve Ham Casserole

There are numerous ways to serve this delicious ham casserole. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Alternatively, you can serve it alongside garlic bread to soak up the creamy cheese sauce. For those who love a bit of crunch, topping the casserole with crumbled crackers or breadcrumbs before baking can add a delightful texture.

How to Store and Reheat Ham Casserole

To store any leftovers, simply cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ham Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Ham Casserole?

The secret lies in not overbaking and ensuring the cheese is perfectly melted. Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes to achieve that gooey, cheesy texture!

Can I make Ham Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. This makes it an ideal ham dish for gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ham Casserole?

Avoid overcooking the pasta before mixing it with the sauce, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Follow the instructions carefully for the best results!

Variations of Ham Casserole You Can Try

There are many creative twists on this classic ham casserole. You can make a ham and potato casserole recipe by substituting the pasta with diced potatoes. Another option is to incorporate different vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to create a ham casserole with vegetables. For a lighter version, try a creamy ham casserole with pasta using whole wheat noodles.

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken or Vegetable Mei Fun for a delightful twist on comfort food!