Czech Ham Cabbage And Noodle Casserole
A hearty Czech casserole combining tender noodles, savory ground ham, and tender cabbage, all baked in a creamy egg and milk mixture for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package directions until just barely tender.
- Drain the noodles.
- In a skillet, melt the butter and sauté the cabbage until tender.
- In a buttered 2 1/2-quart casserole, layer half of the noodles, then half of the cabbage, and all of the ham.
- Add the remaining cabbage and noodles on top of the layers.
- Scald the milk and slowly add it to the beaten eggs, beating constantly.
- Add salt and pepper, and beat well.
- Pour the milk and egg mixture over the casserole layers.
- Bake at 350°F for about 1 hour or until a knife inserted comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the cabbage while cooking. You can also substitute the ground ham with cooked bacon or sausage for a different twist. If you prefer a creamier texture, use half-and-half instead of milk. For a vegetarian option, replace ham with cooked mushrooms and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting casserole with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a light white wine or a refreshing glass of 5-Star Champagne Punch. For a heartier meal, consider serving with roasted vegetables or a warm potato salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 at 350°F until heated through, about 25-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method helps maintain the casserole's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Czech Ham Cabbage And Noodle Casserole contains roughly 648 calories, with 7g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 661mg per serving (29% 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 meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground ham with cooked chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Just ensure that any meat you use is fully cooked before layering it in the casserole.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
To prepare this casserole in advance, assemble it up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I freeze the ham cabbage and noodle casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through.
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).