Cheesy Ham Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
Introduction
When it comes to hearty and satisfying meals, few dishes can compete with a Cheesy Ham Casserole. This rich, creamy, and cheesy dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a delicious way to use up leftover ham. With its versatile recipe, you can customize it to suit any occasion.
To make your cheese sauce perfect every time, check out Make a Perfect Cheese Sauce.
What Is Cheesy Ham Casserole?
This comforting casserole combines tender ham, a rich cheese sauce, and a starchy base like pasta or potatoes. It’s baked until bubbly and golden, making it a warm and inviting dish.
For ideas on toppings, explore Best Breadcrumb Toppings.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 3 cups cooked pasta, potatoes, or hash browns
- 1 cup frozen peas or diced vegetables (optional)
For the Cheese Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
For the Topping
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Preparing the Base
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer cooked pasta or potatoes and diced ham in the dish.
2. Making the Cheese Sauce
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
- Stir in shredded cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
3. Assembling the Casserole
- Pour the cheese sauce over the ham and pasta or potatoes, mixing gently.
4. Adding the Topping and Baking
- Combine breadcrumbs and melted butter; sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Creative Variations
- Ham and Broccoli Casserole: Add steamed broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Hash Brown Version: Swap the pasta for hash browns for a breakfast twist.
- Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper in the cheese sauce.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Pair with crusty garlic bread for a complete comfort food experience.
Check out Breakfast Sausage Biscuit Gravy Casserole for another cozy casserole idea.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I freeze Cheesy Ham Casserole?
Absolutely! Freeze tightly covered for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
3. What cheeses work best?
Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Gruyère, or a cheese blend works well too.
4. How do I prevent it from drying out?
Cover with foil for the first half of baking and avoid overbaking.
Internal Linking Opportunities
- Crockpot Ham and Green Beans: A great way to use leftover ham in a crockpot dish.
- Homemade Mac and Cheese Casserole: Another cheesy favorite for casserole lovers.
- Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole: Perfect for brunch gatherings.
Conclusion
A Cheesy Ham Casserole is a versatile, comforting, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it with creative variations and enjoy its creamy, cheesy goodness.
