Old State Ham And Noodle Casserole
A hearty ham and noodle casserole featuring creamy mushroom soup, melted cheese, and vibrant vegetables, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add salt and noodles to boiling water; boil rapidly, stirring constantly for 2 minutes.
- Cover; remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes.
- Melt butter in a saucepan and add chopped onion and chopped green pepper.
- Cook for 5 minutes.
- Add diced ham and cook a few minutes longer.
- Rinse noodles under cold water.
- Heat condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk together until smooth.
- Combine ham mixture, soup, pimiento, and pepper with noodles.
- Pour mixture into a greased 1-quart casserole.
- Sprinkle with grated American cheese and bake in a moderate oven (375°F) for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the soup mixture. You can also substitute the American cheese with cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, pre-cooked ham can save you a few minutes. Feel free to experiment with veggies; adding peas or mushrooms can enhance the dish's texture. This recipe is a great way to use leftover ham from other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You might also serve it with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up the creamy sauce. For a heartier option, try serving it alongside mashed potatoes or a baked potato. It’s a comforting dish that complements various sides, making it versatile for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old State Ham And Noodle Casserole contains roughly 919 calories, with 8g protein, 186g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (36% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2392mg per serving (104% 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 step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. This is a great option for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can substitute it with a homemade mixture of sautéed mushrooms in a cream sauce or use a can of cream of chicken soup. For a lighter option, consider using a vegetable broth with added cream or a dairy-free alternative for a similar consistency.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole! Make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed until heated through. This makes for an easy meal option later on.
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).