Ham Casserole

Ham Casserole

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Ham casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together savory ham, tender pasta or potatoes, and a rich, creamy sauce—all baked until golden and bubbly. It’s perfect for using up leftover ham and works beautifully for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even holiday meals.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to make the perfect ham casserole from scratch.

Ham Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Great way to use up leftover ham

  • Easy to customize with veggies and cheese

  • Make-ahead and freezer friendly

  • A full meal in one dish

Ingredients List

  • 2 cups cooked ham, diced

  • 3 cups cooked pasta (such as penne or elbow macaroni) or 3 cups cooked diced potatoes

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 1 1/2 cups milk or cream

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

  • Optional:

    • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

    • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for added flavor in sauce)

    • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Choosing the Right Ham

You can use any cooked ham for this recipe—leftover baked ham, deli ham, or store-bought cubed ham. Make sure it’s well-trimmed and not overly salty. If using very salty ham, reduce the added salt in the recipe.

Best Base: Pasta vs. Potatoes

Using Pasta

Elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini are all great options. Cook them al dente since they’ll continue cooking in the oven.

Using Potatoes

Use thinly sliced russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. Parboil or partially cook before assembling to ensure tenderness after baking.

The Creamy Sauce

The sauce is the heart of any casserole. This version uses a simple béchamel-style sauce made with butter, flour, milk, and cheese.

Ingredients for Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups milk or half-and-half

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins

Feel free to include additional ingredients to customize your casserole:

  • Frozen peas or mixed vegetables

  • Sautéed mushrooms or spinach

  • Chopped broccoli or bell peppers

  • Extra cheese like mozzarella or Swiss

  • A crunchy topping made from breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter

Equipment

  • Large skillet or saucepan

  • Mixing bowls

  • Whisk

  • 9×13-inch baking dish

  • Aluminum foil (for covering while baking)

Timing & Servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: 6 to 8

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ham Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta or Potatoes

If using pasta, cook until al dente, drain, and set aside. If using potatoes, peel, slice thinly, and parboil for about 5-6 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

  2. Add diced onions and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes).

  3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking continuously.

  4. Slowly add milk or cream while whisking to avoid lumps.

  5. Add cheese, mustard (if using), and season with salt and pepper.

  6. Stir until the sauce thickens and is smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta or potatoes, ham, vegetables, and sauce. Toss until evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top. Optional: Sprinkle with extra cheese or breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.

Step 6: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Ham Casserole

Tips for Making It Perfect

  • Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.

  • Don’t overcook the pasta—it should be slightly firm before baking.

  • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking for easier serving.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions

Make-Ahead

Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 5-10 minutes to the cook time.

Freezing

Prepare and assemble the casserole, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Variations You Can Try

Cheesy Ham & Broccoli Casserole

Add 1 cup of steamed broccoli florets for added nutrition and flavor.

Southwest Ham Casserole

Include corn, black beans, and pepper jack cheese. Top with crushed tortilla chips before baking.

Low-Carb Version

Replace pasta with steamed cauliflower and reduce flour in the sauce or use almond flour.

What to Serve with Ham Casserole

Pair your ham casserole with simple sides:

  • Green salad with vinaigrette

  • Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans

  • Garlic bread or dinner rolls

  • Cranberry sauce or applesauce for a sweet contrast

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 420-480

  • Protein: 22g

  • Carbohydrates: 25g

  • Fat: 28g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sodium: 750mg (may vary depending on ham used)

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère all work well. Mix and match for depth of flavor.

What if I don’t have cream?

Whole milk or even 2% milk will work. You can also mix milk with a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt for richness.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftover ham casserole will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat covered in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

Ham casserole is the kind of dish that warms your soul and fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. It’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just planning a cozy dinner, this casserole is sure to become a repeat favorite. Use this guide to master the basics and make it your own with fun add-ins and flavors.