Grandma Irwin'S Ham Casserole
A comforting ham casserole with creamy cheese and noodles, topped with bread crumbs. Perfect for family dinners, especially after holiday celebrations like Easter.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a saucepan, melt the margarine over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and dry mustard, cooking for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer until thickened.
- Add the parsley flakes and cubed ham, stirring to combine.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles and the ham mixture.
- Stir in the grated Cheddar cheese until melted and well incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Beat the eggs and evenly distribute them over the casserole.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs on top.
- Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try substituting half of the margarine with butter. If you don't have dry mustard, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can be used instead. To make it lighter, consider using whole wheat noodles or adding some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. This casserole can also be customized with leftover meats from other American recipes, such as smoked venison roast.
Serving Suggestions
This ham casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside bread rolls or cornbread for added comfort. For a heartier option, consider serving it with barbecued pork chops or pork steak. It's perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ham casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out if reheating in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Irwin'S Ham Casserole contains roughly 888 calories, with 17g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 623mg per serving (27% 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 cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese adds a great flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique twist. Just ensure the cheese melts well to keep the casserole creamy.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour for the roux and ensure your noodles are gluten-free as well. There are many gluten-free pasta options available that work well in casseroles.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge. This is a great option for busy weeknights.
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).