Company Ham Casserole
A comforting ham casserole featuring tender spaghetti in a rich, cheesy sauce with a hint of onion. Perfect for family dinners or leftovers, it combines savory ham and melted cheeses for a hearty, satisfying meal that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti; drain, rinse and set aside.
- Saute onions lightly in butter or margarine in a pan; stir in flour.
- Gradually stir in broth, milk, and half and half, then cook, stirring, until thickened.
- Remove from heat and combine with cooked ham and cheese as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra cup of half and half or substituting with heavy cream. You can use leftover holiday ham for this dish, making it a great way to reduce waste. If you prefer a different flavor profile, try adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers. To make it lighter, use whole wheat spaghetti or a gluten-free pasta alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is best served warm and can be accompanied by a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Pair it with Garlic Bread or a light soup, like Creamy Zucchini Soup, for a complete dining experience. It's also a great dish to serve at potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Company Ham Casserole contains roughly 1489 calories, with 30g protein, 195g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (75% of the Daily Value), protein (60% of the Daily Value), and calcium (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 931mg per serving (40% 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 a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute thin spaghetti with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure it is cooked al dente before mixing with the other ingredients.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Absolutely! You can replace the ham with sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, or use a meat substitute like tempeh or seitan to maintain the heartiness of the dish. Adjust seasoning to enhance the flavors.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This is a great way to have a meal ready without much hassle.
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).