El Paso Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole combining ham and noodles, perfect for comforting family dinners with rich flavors and a smooth, velvety texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the wide noodles until al dente, then drain.
- Put the cooked noodles and cubed ham into a casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, melt the butter and whisk in the flour and milk to create a béchamel sauce.
- Add the Velveeta cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the noodles and ham in the casserole dish.
- Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the béchamel sauce. You can substitute the Velveeta cheese with a combination of sharp cheddar and cream cheese for a different flavor profile. If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, use reduced-fat ham and cheese. Make sure to cook the noodles just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
Serving Suggestions
This El Paso Casserole is a hearty main dish that pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or Debi'S Broccoli Salad for a balanced meal. For a complete dinner, serve it alongside crusty bread or Sour Cream Tortillas (Or Pinwheels) for added texture. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for an extra pop of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of El Paso Casserole contains roughly 2390 calories, with 7g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 242g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value), protein (15% of the Daily Value), and calcium (13% 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
What can I use instead of ham in this recipe?
If you want to omit the ham, you can substitute it with cooked chicken or turkey for a lighter option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, consider using sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times for any protein substitutions.
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).