Meat And Noodle Casserole
A hearty meat and noodle casserole with creamy cheese sauce, peas, and ham, baked to perfection — ideal for comforting family dinners and versatile with optional proteins.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a medium white sauce by melting 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan.
- Add flour and stir until smooth.
- Gradually stir in milk and cook, stirring, until the sauce is smooth and thick.
- Remove from heat and add cheese, stirring until melted.
- Add cooked noodles, ham, and drained peas to the sauce and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Top with buttered crumbs.
- Bake for 35 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce. If you don't have ham, cooked chicken or turkey can be great substitutes. For a vegetarian version, swap the meat for mushrooms or additional vegetables like bell peppers or squash. You can also use whole wheat noodles for added fiber. Remember to cook noodles al dente before mixing them in, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve with crusty bread or a side of American recipes like Boston Baked Beans. You can also garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat And Noodle Casserole contains roughly 750 calories, with 5g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1108mg per serving (48% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just allow it to come to room temperature and follow the baking instructions. This is a great time-saver for busy weekdays or gatherings.
Can I freeze the Meat and Noodle Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just cover it well with plastic wrap and foil. It will keep for about 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for this casserole due to its melting properties and flavor. However, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack for a milder taste or mozzarella for a gooey texture. Mixing several types can also create a delicious flavor profile.
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).