Green Noodle And Ham Casserole
A comforting green noodle and ham casserole featuring cheesy, savory flavors with mushrooms and a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in 1 tablespoon margarine until tender.
- Blend in flour, salt, and pepper; gradually add milk, stirring constantly.
- Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Add shredded Cheddar cheese, ham cubes, and drained mushrooms; stir until cheese melts.
- In a 10 x 6-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked green noodles and sauce.
- Repeat with remaining noodles and sauce to create layers.
- Top with dry bread crumbs tossed with 2 tablespoons melted margarine.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of cream or substituting half of the milk with sour cream. If you don’t have green noodles on hand, regular egg noodles or even whole wheat pasta can work as a substitute. Enhance the flavor by adding garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. For a twist, try using leftover ham from Haley'S Pork Chops or another favorite Pork recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can serve it alongside a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. For a heartier option, consider serving with crusty bread or garlic bread. It also complements nicely with sides like Cauliflower Supreme Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes, or microwave in individual portions until hot. You can also add a splash of milk before reheating to maintain creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Noodle And Ham Casserole contains roughly 963 calories, with 19g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (48% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2157mg per serving (94% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it as directed but hold off on baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the plastic and bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes, until bubbly and golden, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What can I substitute for the cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different flavor, you can substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a milder taste. For a sharper flavor, consider using Gruyère or a sharp white cheddar. Just ensure that the cheese melts well to maintain the creamy texture.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables can enhance both nutrition and flavor. Consider incorporating steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach. You can mix them into the sauce or layer them with the noodles. Just make sure that if using fresh vegetables, they are slightly cooked beforehand to ensure they are tender after baking.
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).