Holiday Macaroni Casserole
A hearty holiday casserole featuring pasta, diced chicken or ham, and a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for festive family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare macaroni according to package directions and drain.
- Combine milk, cream of mushroom soup, and grated Cheddar cheese and simmer until cheese is melted.
- Mix cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, chopped onion, green pepper, black pepper, and diced chicken, turkey, or ham.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2 quart casserole dish.
- Bake in a 325°F oven for 30 minutes or microwave for 6 to 8 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the cheese sauce. You can also swap out the Cheddar for a blend of your favorite cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda, for a different flavor profile. If you prefer vegetables, try adding peas or spinach to enhance nutrition and color. This dish can also be made ahead and frozen.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You might also serve it alongside garlic bread or crusty rolls. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with fresh herbs or additional cheese just before serving. It makes a great addition to any holiday table or family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover macaroni casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 535 calories, with 23g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (70% of the Daily Value), and calcium (52% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 700mg per serving (30% 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 pasta for this casserole?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even shells. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose to maintain the right texture.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian! Simply omit the meat and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, broccoli, or zucchini. You can also enrich the dish with additional cheese or a plant-based protein for added heartiness.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Certainly! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious when served. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
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).