Ham Macaroni Casserole
A comforting ham and cheese casserole with tender pasta, sautéed green pepper and onion, and creamy mushroom or celery soup, perfect for family dinners and leftovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions.
- Sauté green pepper and onion in butter until tender.
- Heat the cubed ham through in a pan.
- Dilute the soup with milk and combine with cooked macaroni, sautéed vegetables, and ham.
- Pour mixture into a baking dish, top with shredded cheese.
- Bake at 375°F for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider using a blend of cream of mushroom and cream of celery soup. You can also substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey if you prefer leaner meat. Adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or some Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor. For a bit of crunch, toss in some breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Ham Macaroni Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a light soup for a comforting dinner. For an extra touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving to add color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 942 calories, with 19g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (167% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value), and iron (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 954mg per serving (41% 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
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
You can add various vegetables to enhance the nutrition and flavor of the casserole. Consider incorporating frozen peas, diced carrots, or even spinach. Just sauté them along with the green pepper and onion, or mix them in with the macaroni for added texture and color.
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).