Leftover Ham Noodle Casserole 🍽️🍖

This comforting casserole transforms your leftover holiday ham into a creamy, cheesy delight. Packed with flavor and goodness, it's an easy way to repurpose ham while satisfying the whole family. Whether it's a cozy weeknight meal or a potluck dish, this casserole is sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the casserole

• 8 ounces egg noodles (or any pasta you prefer)
• 2 cups diced leftover ham
• 1 cup frozen peas (or mixed veggies)
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the topping

• 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/4 cup additional shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

🍜 You can also use whole wheat noodles or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist!

3. In a large bowl, combine the diced ham, cooked noodles, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.

4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

5. In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole, adding additional cheese if desired for a cheesier topping.

6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

🔥 If you like a crunchier topping, you can place the casserole under the broiler for the last 5 minutes of baking—just watch closely to avoid burning!

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute the ham with additional vegetables such as chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a meat-free version. You might also add beans for extra protein! 🌱

• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat. This will give your casserole a spicy twist that pairs well with the creaminess.

• Herb-infused: Mix in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary to add a fragrant, earthy note that enhances the dish.

• Lower sodium: Use sodium-reduced soup and rinse your ham to reduce salt content without compromising flavor.

This Leftover Ham Noodle Casserole is a versatile dish that makes sure nothing goes to waste while delivering delicious comfort food to your table. Enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite! 😋