Ham-Mac Casserole
A hearty ham and macaroni casserole featuring creamy celery soup, melted cheese, and tender ham, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in oleo until translucent.
- Add cream of celery soup, canned tomatoes, cubed ham, and cooked macaroni to the onion; stir well.
- Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes.
- Turn the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked ham or adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce. You can substitute the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom soup if preferred. If you want a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. For a lighter version, swap out regular macaroni for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Ham-Mac Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing Wilted Bacon Salad for a complete dinner. For a comforting lunch, enjoy it alongside a bowl of soup, like Quick Manhattan Clam Chowder, to warm up on chilly days.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham-Mac Casserole contains roughly 277 calories, with 9g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 787mg per serving (34% 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?
Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Mixing different cheeses can also enhance flavor and texture.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! This casserole is versatile, and you can add cooked vegetables like peas, broccoli, or bell peppers to boost nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the liquid slightly if adding a lot of veggies.
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).