Creamy Ham Bake
A creamy, cheesy ham casserole with tender noodles, vegetables, and a savory mushroom sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the Dutch Maid noodles separately according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped celery, chopped green pepper, chopped onion, and salt; cook until tender.
- Blend in the cream of mushroom soup and milk; stir constantly until the cheese melts.
- Combine cooked noodles, soup mixture, and cubed ham; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a 3-quart casserole dish and top with bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or even a dollop of sour cream to the mixture. If you want to lighten the dish, you can substitute half of the ham with cooked and chopped mushrooms or extra veggies. Grating your own cheese will enhance flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties. For added flavor, try incorporating some garlic powder or Italian seasoning into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy ham bake pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also serve it alongside crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete comfort food experience, consider following up with dessert like Tahitian Coffee Cake or Pumpkin-Chocolate Nut Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Ham Bake contains roughly 1109 calories, with 20g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 93g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1303mg per serving (57% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the Dutch Maid noodles with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose to maintain the desired texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can create a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and adding more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You could also use a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh for added protein while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
To prepare this dish ahead, you can assemble everything in the casserole dish and cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake it directly from the fridge, though you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).