Are you looking for a comforting, easy-to-make dish that will please both kids and adults alike? Look no further! This Ham and cheese casserole is the perfect solution for busy parents and home cooks who want to whip up a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let's get started!
Ingredients List
Essential Ingredients
- 2 cups diced ham (leftover ham works great!)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 2 cups cooked pasta (macaroni or penne)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (or substitute with cream of chicken)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)
Optional Variations
- For a healthier twist: Use whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese.
- For a vegetarian option: Substitute ham with diced cooked vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- For a gluten-free version: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Preparation Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's ready by the time you're done assembling the casserole.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Dice the ham into small, bite-sized pieces. If using leftover ham, make sure it's properly heated.
- Finely chop the onion and bell pepper for that extra burst of flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, shredded cheese, cooked pasta, milk, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper.
- Season the mixture with black pepper and salt to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- If you prefer a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
Cooking Instructions
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
Serving Suggestions
How to Serve
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the casserole to cool completely.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the leftover casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutritional Information
(Optional, but recommended for health-conscious readers)
Here's a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving (assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and devouring this delicious Ham and Cheese Casserole! It's a versatile, family-friendly dish that's sure to become a favorite in your household. Don't forget to share your creations with us on social media and tag us with #BrandNameCooks. Happy cooking!
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