Hawaiian Casserole
A cheesy, sweet and savory casserole combining ham, pineapple, and noodles with a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook egg noodles in salted, boiling water until tender. Drain and rinse.
- Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a saucepan while noodles cook.
- Stir in 3 tablespoons flour, then gradually add 1 cup milk and 1/4 cup pineapple syrup, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Add 1 cup pineapple cubes, 1 pound cooked ham cubed, and the cooked noodles. Blend well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Combine bread crumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or using half-and-half instead. You can substitute the cooked ham with shredded rotisserie chicken or a vegetarian alternative to cater to different dietary preferences. To enhance the flavor, try adding a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the sauce mixture. This dish also pairs beautifully with Grilled Tomato Halves for a fresh contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Hawaiian Casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a delightful dessert, consider finishing with Easy Peach Delight for a fruity, light finish after the savory casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hawaiian Casserole contains roughly 943 calories, with 16g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 620mg per serving (27% 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 noodle?
Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta varieties like rotini or penne. Just ensure they are cooked al dente before mixing them into the casserole to avoid mushiness during baking.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
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).