Ham Casserole
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
30 mins
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Total Time
50 mins
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Servings
6
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Calories
644 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Italian
Ham Casserole
Description
Ham Casserole starts by cooking egg noodles until tender. A roux is made by melting butter and briefly cooking minced garlic with flour to form a base. Milk and heavy cream are gradually added while whisking to create a smooth sauce that thickens as it simmers. Grated Parmesan and most of the shredded cheddar are added to melt into the sauce, with salt and pepper seasoning to taste.
The cooked noodles, diced ham, and blanched broccoli florets are combined with the cheese sauce to coat everything evenly. The mixture is placed into a greased baking dish and topped with the remaining cheddar cheese. Baking uncovered at 375°F allows the casserole to bubble and develop a golden color on top.
This casserole pairs well with simple sides or can be served as a main dish with a fresh green salad. For best results, use freshly grated cheese as it melts better than pre-shredded varieties. Lightly steaming broccoli or using thawed frozen broccoli ensures the vegetable holds its texture without excess moisture.
It can be prepared up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerated; add baking time if baking cold. Garnishing with chopped parsley adds a fresh finish.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces egg noodles cooked in salted water according to package directions
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic minced
- 2 cups milk whole
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- 3 cups cheddar cheese divided use, shredded
- 2 1/2 cups ham diced
- 1 1/2 cups broccoli cooked, florets
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon parsley chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Coat a 3 quart baking dish with cooking spray.
- Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the milk and cream, then simmer, whisking constantly, until sauce has just thickened.
- Add the parmesan cheese and 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese to the milk mixture, along with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir until the cheese has melted.
- Place the egg noodles, ham and broccoli in a large bowl. Pour the sauce over the top, and toss to coat evenly.
- Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared pan, and top with remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes or until pasta is bubbly and cheese has just started to brown.
- Sprinkle parsley over the top, then serve.
Notes
- This casserole can be assembled up to 4 hours before baking; cover and refrigerate until ready to cook, adding baking time if cold.
- Use freshly grated cheeses to ensure better melting and creamier sauce compared to pre-shredded packaged cheese.
- Lightly steam or blanch broccoli before adding; frozen broccoli can be used if thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 644 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 644kcal | 32% |
| Carbohydrates | 51g | 17% |
| Protein | 35g | 70% |
| Fat | 34g | 52% |
| Saturated Fat | 24g | 120% |
| Cholesterol | 160mg | 53% |
| Sodium | 569mg | 24% |
| Potassium | 414mg | 9% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 6g | 12% |
| Vitamin A | 1385IU | 28% |
| Vitamin C | 2.1mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 465mg | 47% |
| Iron | 1.7mg | 9% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.