Chopped Ham And Noodle Bake
A comforting baked ham and noodle casserole with savory cheese and olives, topped with crispy bread crumbs. Perfect for family dinners and hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Saute chopped onion in 2 tablespoons butter until translucent.
- Add chopped ham, cooked egg noodles, sliced black olives, and Cheddar cheese soup to the onion mixture and transfer to a 1 1/2 quart casserole dish.
- Melt remaining butter in a small saucepan.
- Mix melted butter with bread crumbs.
- Sprinkle bread crumb mixture on top of the casserole.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating a teaspoon of garlic powder or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning into the mixture. If you're out of Cheddar cheese soup, a creamy mushroom soup can be a great substitute. You can also use leftover turkey or chicken instead of ham for a different twist. To make it more nutritious, add in some frozen peas or spinach before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Chopped Ham and Noodle Bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, serve with crusty bread or garlic knots. You can enhance the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. It also makes for a comforting option for potlucks, similar to other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 3 months, but the texture might change slightly upon reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chopped Ham And Noodle Bake contains roughly 597 calories, with 6g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% 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 use uncooked noodles instead of cooked?
Using uncooked noodles is not recommended as they need to be pre-cooked for proper texture. However, if you prefer a quicker option, consider using pre-cooked or frozen egg noodles, ensuring they are heated through during the baking process.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it completely, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole goes well with a side of steamed broccoli or a mixed greens salad. You can also pair it with a light vinaigrette or a creamy dressing to balance the richness of the dish. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Croustades(Appetizers) for a delightful meal.
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).