If you have leftover ham from a holiday feast, this leftover ham & noodle casserole is the perfect dish to create a comforting and satisfying meal. With tender noodles, savory ham, and a creamy sauce, this casserole is not only delicious but also a great way to use up leftovers without sacrificing flavor. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
– 3 cups cooked egg noodles
– 2 cups diced cooked ham
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on a serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, diced ham, and frozen peas.
3. In another bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the soup mixture over the noodle and ham combination and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce. You can also replace the frozen peas with any other vegetables like broccoli or corn for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier feast, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or dinner rolls.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place the entire dish back in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the noodles can result in mushy texture; cook them al dente.
- Using low-fat dairy can alter the creaminess of the dish; full-fat products are recommended.
- Not seasoning enough may lead to bland flavors.
- Skipping the foil cover initially can cause the cheese to burn.
- Forgetting to let the casserole cool can make serving difficult.
Helpful Tips
- Use leftover holiday ham for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different cheese types for a unique twist.
- Add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
- Make it ahead of time and bake just before serving.
- Consider adding breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture.
FAQs
Can I use uncooked noodles in this recipe?
Using uncooked noodles is not recommended, as they require boiling to ensure proper texture. Always use cooked noodles for the best outcome.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
You can substitute regular egg noodles with gluten-free pasta and ensure the cream of mushroom soup is also gluten-free.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to enhance the dish’s nutrition and flavor.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
How long will the leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they are stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
Leftover ham & noodle casserole is a wonderful way to transform holiday leftovers into a comforting meal. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite and share the warmth of home-cooked goodness!
Leftover Ham & Noodle Casserole
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked egg noodles
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, diced ham, and frozen peas.
- In another bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the soup mixture over the noodle and ham combination and stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
