One-Step Ham Casserole
A creamy, hearty ham casserole with mushrooms, cheese, and pasta, perfect for a comforting family dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1 1/2-quart casserole, combine the condensed cream of celery soup, milk, drained mushrooms, and dried minced onion.
- Add chopped fully cooked ham, uncooked elbow macaroni, chopped pimento, and a dash of pepper.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Bake, covered, in a 375°F oven for about 50 minutes or until the macaroni is tender.
- Uncover and sprinkle shredded American cheese on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the mixture. If you don't have elbow macaroni, any small pasta shape will work well. Feel free to substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor. Adding some frozen peas or spinach can enhance the nutrition and add color.
Serving Suggestions
This One-Step Ham Casserole pairs nicely with a fresh side salad, such as a 7 Ingredient Salad, to balance the richness of the dish. You might also serve it alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added nutrition. For a heartier meal, include some crusty bread or rolls.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of One-Step Ham Casserole contains roughly 415 calories, with 11g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 990mg per serving (43% 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?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version using a roux and adding celery and seasonings. This will maintain the creamy texture while giving a slightly different flavor.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then cook as directed. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing.
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).