Ham Apollo
Ham Apollo is a creamy, cheesy baked noodle casserole with tender ham and onions, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering comforting flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chopped onion in oleo until tender; blend in flour and seasonings.
- Gradually add milk, stirring until thickened.
- Stir in diced cooked ham and 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese.
- Alternate layers of cooked noodles and sauce mixture in a 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Top with additional Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding garlic or a pinch of nutmeg to the onion mixture. You can substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different twist, or even use a plant-based ham alternative for vegetarian recipes. If you prefer a creamier sauce, add a bit of cream or sour cream to the milk mixture before combining with the ham.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole. You might also serve it with Soft Pretzels Or Breadsticks for a fun, hearty meal. For a comforting dessert, try serving Mamaw Smith'S Fresh Coconut Cake afterward to complete the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Ham Apollo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of milk to loosen it up before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Apollo contains roughly 609 calories, with 16g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (46% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 770mg per serving (33% 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 frozen cooked ham for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cooked ham works well in this recipe. Just ensure it is fully thawed before dicing and adding it to the sauce. This can save time and make meal prep easier.
What type of noodles should I use for layering?
Egg noodles are a traditional choice for this dish, but you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Just ensure that the noodles are cooked al dente before layering to avoid them becoming mushy during baking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through properly.
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).