Ham Tetrazzini
Ham Tetrazzini is a creamy, cheesy pasta casserole featuring tender ham, flavorful white sauce, and fresh parsley, perfect for a comforting family meal or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make white sauce by melting butter and adding flour, salt, and pepper, then stirring in milk.
- Cook the sauce until slightly thickened.
- Add grated cheese and stir until smooth.
- Add cooked ham, cooked spaghetti, minced parsley, and mushrooms to the sauce and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish and top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms to the sauce along with the other ingredients. If you're out of sharp cheese, substitute with mozzarella or cheddar. To make it lighter, use whole wheat spaghetti or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. For an extra kick, a dash of hot sauce can enhance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Ham Tetrazzini is delightful on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the creamy dish. For a comforting dessert, try serving warm Cherry Cake afterward for a satisfying finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Tetrazzini contains roughly 1264 calories, with 43g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 91g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (279% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (152% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1826mg per serving (79% 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 meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or a meat substitute to maintain the heartiness of the dish.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, simply whisk in a little additional milk over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This will help to loosen the sauce without compromising flavor. Adjust seasonings as necessary to ensure the dish remains delicious.
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).