Aunt Penny'S Ham Casserole
A hearty ham casserole with creamy mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, and pasta, topped with buttery cracker crumbs—perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix mushroom soup and milk in a buttered casserole dish.
- Add cubed ham, grated Cheddar cheese, cooked elbow spaghetti, drained mushrooms, and horseradish; stir to combine.
- Top the casserole with cracker crumbs tossed in butter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you don't have Cheddar cheese, any other melty cheese like Monterey Jack or Gruyère can work well. To enhance flavor, add some sautéed onions or bell peppers. For a spicy kick, a dash of cayenne pepper could complement the dish nicely. This casserole is a great use for leftover ham from holiday meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast. It pairs nicely with crusty bread or a side of roasted vegetables. For a comforting meal, consider serving it alongside a bowl of V-8 Vegetable Soup to create a balanced dinner. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Penny'S Ham Casserole contains roughly 450 calories, with 13g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (65% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 789mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze the ham casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I use instead of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can make a simple white sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually adding milk, seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This will give a similar creamy base to your casserole.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).