Ham Or Chicken Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender meats, creamy soups, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and gatherings, customizable with vegetables like peas and peppers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grate the processed cheese.
- Combine uncooked macaroni, cut-up ham or chicken, cream of chicken, mushroom or celery soup, chopped onion, grated cheese, milk, salt, and pepper in a casserole dish.
- Refrigerate the mixture overnight to let flavors meld.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until hot and bubbly.
- Optional: add peas, parsley, and green pepper before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mixture. If you're out of processed cheese, substitute with shredded cheddar or mozzarella. For added flavor, sauté the chopped onion in a bit of butter before adding it to the casserole. You can also experiment by incorporating leftover vegetables or using different types of meat such as rotisserie chicken. This dish is versatile and can be customized to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For an extra crunch, consider serving it with garlic bread or biscuits. A drizzle of hot sauce can add a delightful kick. For a hearty meal, serve alongside American recipes like Best Fried Chicken(Double Crust) or Mama'S Pork Chop Casserole to please your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave portions in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Or Chicken Casserole contains roughly 996 calories, with 23g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), iron (38% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 macaroni instead of uncooked?
It's best to use uncooked macaroni for this recipe, as it absorbs the flavors and moisture during baking. If you use frozen macaroni, adjust the cooking time accordingly, as it may not cook evenly. For best results, stick to the original ingredient list for a well-balanced texture.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use an equal amount of homemade white sauce or substitute with another cream soup like cream of chicken or cream of celery. Additionally, blending sautéed mushrooms with cream can create a similar flavor and texture, making for an excellent alternative.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This casserole is ideal for meal prep as it can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve. You can also freeze portions for later use. Just ensure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn, and reheat thoroughly before serving.
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).