Leftover Ham Casserole I Ham and Pasta Casserole I How to make Ham Casserole
Leftover Ham Casserole I Ham and Pasta Casserole I How to make Ham Casserole is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 400 calories per serving. Recipe by Domestically Driven on YouTube.
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 1 hr 15 min
Cost: $6.29 total, $1.57 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 cups Elbow Macaroni (uncooked, short pasta shape)
- 0.5 cup Milk (whole or 2% milk)
- 1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup (approximately 10.5 oz, golden mushroom variety preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted)
- 1.5 cups Cooked Ham (cubed, leftover ham from freezer)
- 2 tablespoons Onion (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic (minced, about 1 clove)
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded, sharp or medium)
- 1 spray Cooking Spray (light coating for baking dish)
- to taste Salt (optional, ham and soup are already salty)
- to taste Black Pepper (optional)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set the oven to 350°F and let it preheat while you prepare the casserole.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: 350°F
Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the macaroni and cook until al dente (about 8‑10 minutes). Drain in a colander and set aside.
Time: PT10M
Make Sauce Base
In the mixing bowl combine melted butter, milk, cream of mushroom soup, minced onion, and minced garlic. Stir until smooth.
Time: PT5M
Add Ham and Pasta
Fold the cubed ham and cooked pasta into the sauce, mixing until everything is evenly coated.
Time: PT3M
Incorporate First Cheese Layer
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the mixture.
Time: PT2M
Prepare Baking Dish
Lightly spray the 9‑by‑13‑inch baking dish with cooking spray, then transfer the casserole mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
Time: PT3M
Add Top Cheese Layer
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Time: PT2M
Bake Casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30‑35 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and lightly browned.
Time: PT35M
Temperature: 350°F
Rest Before Serving
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving to set the sauce.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 400
- Protein
- 20 g
- Carbohydrates
- 35 g
- Fat
- 18 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Contains meat, Contains dairy, Contains gluten
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Elbow Macaroni: any short pasta such as penne or shells
- Instead of Milk: half-and-half, cream
- Instead of Cream of Mushroom Soup: cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: margarine, olive oil
- Instead of Cooked Ham: cooked turkey, cooked chicken
- Instead of Onion: shallots, green onion
- Instead of Garlic: garlic powder (1/4 tsp)
- Instead of Cheddar Cheese: Monterey Jack, Colby
- Instead of Cooking Spray: butter or oil brushed onto pan
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- 9‑by‑13‑inch Baking Dish
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon
- Oven
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Preheating the oven to 350°F ensures proper baking
- Cooking the pasta al dente prevents a mushy texture
- Ensuring the cheese is fully melted and bubbly gives the signature gooey crust
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use the golden mushroom soup for a subtle roasted‑garlic flavor
- Reserve a handful of cheese for the top to create a crunchy crust
- Let the casserole rest; this makes slicing cleaner.
Troubleshooting
Casserole is dry after baking
Stir in an extra 2‑3 Tbsp of milk before baking next time.
Top isn’t browned or bubbly
Broil for 2‑3 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely.
Too salty
Reduce added salt and use low‑sodium cream of mushroom soup or rinse ham briefly before cubing.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer‑safe container for up to 2 months; reheat covered at 350°F until hot.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Assemble the casserole up to step 7, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking
- The dish can be frozen uncooked; thaw overnight in the fridge before baking
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of ham casserole in American comfort food cuisine?
Ham casseroles are a classic American comfort dish that emerged as a practical way to stretch holiday leftovers, especially after New Year's celebrations. They embody the frugal, family‑focused cooking tradition of turning surplus meat into hearty, family‑friendly meals.
What regional variations of ham and noodle casserole exist within United States cuisine?
In the Midwest, cooks often add corn or peas for extra texture, while Southern versions may incorporate a spicy mustard glaze. Some New England families layer breadcrumbs on top for added crunch, reflecting local pantry staples.
How is ham casserole traditionally served in American households?
It is typically served hot straight from the oven as a main course, accompanied by a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Leftovers are reheated for lunch or dinner the next day, making it a versatile family staple.
During what occasions is ham casserole commonly prepared in American culture?
It is most popular after holiday meals—especially New Year’s and Christmas—when large amounts of ham remain. It also appears at pot‑lucks, casual family gatherings, and as a quick weeknight dinner when leftovers need to be used.
What makes this ham and noodle casserole special compared to regular macaroni‑and‑cheese?
The addition of cubed ham and cream of mushroom soup adds a savory, slightly earthy depth that elevates the dish from a simple cheese bake to a more adult‑friendly, protein‑rich comfort meal.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for a classic American ham casserole, and what can be substituted?
Traditional ingredients include cooked ham, short pasta, cream of mushroom soup, milk, butter, onions, garlic, and cheddar cheese. Substitutes can be turkey or chicken for ham, any short pasta shape, cream of chicken soup, and other meltable cheeses like Monterey Jack.
What other American side dishes pair well with ham and noodle casserole?
Serve it alongside roasted green beans, a crisp coleslaw, or a simple mixed‑leaf salad with vinaigrette. A warm dinner roll or cornbread also complements the creamy casserole nicely.
What common mistakes should I avoid when making ham and noodle casserole at home?
Avoid overcooking the pasta, which leads to a mushy texture, and don’t skip the preheating step, as a cold oven can result in uneven browning. Also, be mindful of the salt level—both ham and canned soup are already salty.
Why does this recipe use cream of mushroom soup instead of plain milk or a roux?
Cream of mushroom soup provides both thickness and umami flavor, eliminating the need for a separate roux while keeping the recipe quick and pantry‑friendly. It also adds a subtle mushroom depth that pairs well with ham.
Can I make this ham casserole ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, assemble the casserole up to the cheese‑topping step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked casserole, then thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
What does the YouTube channel Domestically Driven specialize in?
The YouTube channel Domestically Driven focuses on practical, budget‑friendly home cooking, emphasizing waste‑reduction, quick meals, and creative ways to use leftovers in everyday American cuisine.
How does the YouTube channel Domestically Driven's approach to leftover cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Domestically Driven prioritizes minimal waste and simplicity, often building recipes around ingredients already in the freezer or pantry, whereas many other channels focus on elaborate, ingredient‑specific dishes. This channel’s style is straightforward, relatable, and centered on everyday home cooks.
Last updated: August 22, 2026
