Ham and Cheese Casserole
A rich, savory aroma fills your kitchen as the comforting scent of a bubbling Ham and Cheese Casserole wafts through the air. The rich blend of creamy cheeses, tender pasta, and savory ham creates an enticing warmth that beckons everyone to gather around the table. Whether it’s cold outside or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is like a cozy hug on a plate.
Perfect for busy evenings or festive family gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole combines pantry staples and fresh ingredients, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. It’s budget-friendly, practically effortless, and even a novice cook can whip it up with confidence. Plus, customization is a breeze; simply swap out ingredients to make it your own! Embrace this delicious journey, and you may find yourself savoring this classic again and again.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: It takes just 10 minutes of prep and the oven does the rest.
- Irresistible Flavor: The creamy cheese and smoky ham meld beautifully for a taste that comforts.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: A golden, bubbling top crowned with melted cheese makes for an inviting dish.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for a family dinner, potluck, or as a hearty brunch option.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable by swapping out pasta types or using low-fat cheese.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 7.5 ounces Philadelphia whipped cream cheese: This creamy base adds a luscious texture. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- 12 ounces pasta (rotini, penne, cellentani, or fusilli): Choose your favorite. These shapes hold sauces well and provide a satisfying bite.
- 2 cups shredded medium or sharp cheddar cheese: Divide this for optimal melting; sharp enhances flavor, while medium provides creaminess.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: This helps to blend flavors and prevent sticking; you can substitute with melted butter for a different taste.
- 4 cups chicken broth (regular or low sodium): Opt for low sodium to control seasoning. It adds moisture and depth to the dish.
- 1-2 teaspoons seasoning salt or a mix of salt and black pepper: Seasoning salt elevates flavor; adjust according to your taste.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Essential for that aromatic kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth.
- 2 cups chopped cooked ham: You can use leftover ham or deli meat. It’s the star protein that makes it hearty.
- 2 ounces Velveeta or American cheese: Provides additional creaminess and a gooey texture. Feel free to swap with your choice of cheese.
- 2/3 cup heavy cream: For indulgent richness; half-and-half can be a lighter substitute.
How to Make Ham and Cheese Casserole
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F, ensuring it’s hot enough to create that golden crust.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: In a 13×9-inch baking dish, place the whipped cream cheese in the center. This will melt beautifully as it cooks.
- Assemble the Ingredients: Distribute the uncooked pasta around the cream cheese, then sprinkle 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Season and Drizzle: Sprinkle with seasoning salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the top.
- Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, covering all ingredients. Cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Incorporate the Ham and More Cheese: Carefully remove the foil, then add the cubed ham, Velveeta (or American cheese), and heavy cream. Stir to combine, then cover with foil again. Return to the oven to bake for another 15 minutes.
- Cheese the Top: Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 5-10 minutes, until the edges are browned and bubbling. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover Ham and Cheese Casserole, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Place it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to freeze it, wrap the casserole tightly and place it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, which might take about 20-25 minutes. The texture may change slightly, but adding a splash of milk when reheating can help regain creaminess.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it continues to cook while baking.
- For cream cheese, ensure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing without lumps.
- Want it a bit spicier? Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to kick it up a notch.
- If you’re short on time, consider using precooked ham or rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- This dish is easy to customize—feel free to toss in veggies like peas or broccoli for added nutrition.
There’s something uniquely comforting about sharing a big, warm dish of Ham and Cheese Casserole with loved ones. As the flavors mingle and the cheese melts, it invites happy conversations and a sense of belonging. You’ll find there’s room for creativity, whether it’s using different cheeses, swapping the ham for chicken, or adding seasonal veggies. Explore the possibilities, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this casserole in advance?
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
How can I make it healthier?
Can I freeze the casserole after baking?
More Dinner Recipes
- Eggplant Parmesan
- Chicken Broccoli Casserole
- Turkey Tetrazzini
- Homemade Lipton Onion Soup Mix
- Noodle Kugel
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Ham and Cheese Casserole
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ham and Cheese Casserole combines creamy layers with tender pasta and savory ham for a delightful dish. Perfect for a quick dinner or family gathering!
Ingredients
- 7.5 ounce package philadelphia whipped cream cheese
- 12 ounces pasta rotini, penne, cellentani, or fusilli
- 2 cups shredded medium or sharp cheddar cheese divided
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups chicken broth regular or low sodium
- 1-2 teaspoons seasoning salt or salt and black pepper, amount as desired
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups chopped cooked ham
- 2 ounces velveeta or american cheese
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- In a 13×9-inch baking dish, place the whipped cream cheese in the center. Surround it with uncooked pasta and 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add seasoning salt, garlic powder, and onion powder, then drizzle olive oil evenly over the pasta and cheese.
- Pour chicken broth over the mixture and cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
- Carefully remove the foil. Stir in the chopped ham, cubed Velveeta or American cheese, the remaining 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. Recover with foil and bake for another 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese. Bake uncovered for 5-10 minutes or until the top is browned and bubbling. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Feel free to use different types of cheese based on personal preference.
This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
