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Ham & Cheese Casserole

Ham & Cheese Casserole
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A hearty and comforting Ham & Cheese Casserole featuring tender ham chunks, melted cheddar and Swiss cheese, and a creamy sauce. This quick and easy bake is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, delivering warm, rich flavors loved by the whole family.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Diced Ham – about 2 cups
  • Egg Noodles or Pasta – 8 ounces
  • Cheddar Cheese, shredded – 1 1/2 cups
  • Swiss Cheese, shredded – 1 cup
  • Evaporated Milk or Cream – 2 cups
  • Butter – 3 tablespoons
  • All-purpose Flour – 3 tablespoons
  • Mustard Powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Garlic Powder – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Onion Powder – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt – 1/2 teaspoon or to taste
  • Black Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon or to taste

Optional Topping

  • Bread Crumbs – 1/2 cup (optional)
  • Additional shredded cheese for topping – 1/4 cup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil egg noodles or preferred pasta al dente, ensuring they are tender but still firm since they will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux and cook for about one minute until smooth and bubbly. Gradually add evaporated milk or cream, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Once the sauce thickens, stir in mustard powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Remove from heat, then fold in shredded cheddar and Swiss cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  3. Combine Ham and Pasta: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with diced ham. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the mixture and gently fold until every piece is coated with the luscious cheesy sauce.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and extra shredded cheese on top if desired for a crunchy, golden crust. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Notes

  • Use day-old ham or leftover ham to deepen the flavor.
  • Do not overcook pasta; slightly undercooked pasta prevents mushiness after baking.
  • Shred cheese yourself for better melting results instead of using pre-shredded cheese.
  • Customize your topping with crushed crackers or seasoned breadcrumbs for extra texture.
  • Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to firm up and make cutting easier.

Nutrition

Keywords: Ham casserole, Cheese casserole, Comfort food, Easy dinner, Weeknight meal, Family-friendly casserole

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