Leftover Ham Casserole

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There’s something deeply comforting about using up leftovers in a way that feels brand new—and this Leftover Ham Casserole is just that. After the holidays or a big family dinner, I often find myself with a generous chunk of ham, and rather than let it sit in the fridge untouched, I turn it into this bubbling, cheesy, joyfully easy casserole. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone around the table feel cozy, satisfied, and eager for seconds.

What I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping for the week ahead, this casserole comes together with minimal fuss. It’s filled with tender pasta, creamy sauce, vibrant peas, and chunks of savory ham—all brought together with a golden, cheesy top. Let’s just say it’s the kind of meal that turns leftovers into something truly memorable.

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Why You’ll Love This Leftover Ham Casserole

• A delicious solution for leftover ham: Instead of the usual sandwich, this transforms ham into a new hearty meal.
• Kid-approved: Cheesy, creamy, and packed with pasta—it’s a win for picky eaters.
• Weeknight-friendly: Simple prep, one dish, and done in under an hour.
• Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and freeze for future comfort cravings.
• Perfect for potlucks: Portable and reheats beautifully.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best in Leftover Ham Casserole?

The beauty of this casserole is that it welcomes just about any pasta you have on hand. Personally, I love using wide egg noodles because they hold onto the creamy sauce so well and give the dish a light, fluffy texture. But don’t worry if you don’t have those—rotini, penne, or even elbow macaroni all work perfectly. Just avoid very small pastas like orzo, which can get lost in the mix, or long pastas like spaghetti, which don’t distribute as well in a bake.

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Options for Substitutions

This dish is all about flexibility, so here are some easy swaps:

• Ham: No ham? Leftover turkey, chicken, or even crumbled sausage are excellent substitutes.
• Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta if needed. Just be sure to undercook slightly to avoid mushiness.
• Vegetables: Frozen peas are classic, but you can mix in corn, broccoli florets, or even sautéed mushrooms.
• Cream sauce: Don’t have cream of mushroom or chicken soup? Make a quick roux with butter, flour, and milk, or use sour cream and cheese.
• Cheese: Cheddar is a go-to, but Swiss, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses can bring new flavor.

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Ingredients for This Leftover Ham Casserole

Each ingredient in this recipe has a purpose—and when they come together, it’s pure comfort food magic.

• Cooked Ham: The star of the show. It adds a smoky, salty richness that gives the dish its hearty flavor.
• Egg Noodles: Light, tender, and perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce without becoming too dense.
• Frozen Peas: A pop of color and a touch of sweetness that balances the savory ham.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: Acts as the creamy base, giving the casserole its signature smooth, luscious texture.
• Milk: Helps thin out the soup slightly and keep the dish from being too thick.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds bold, melty goodness and ties everything together under a golden crust.
• Onion Powder: A touch of this brings subtle background flavor without the need for chopping.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
• Parsley (optional): A fresh sprinkle on top adds a nice contrast and a hint of green.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray so nothing sticks while baking.

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Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the egg noodles until just al dente—about 1 to 2 minutes less than package directions. You want them slightly undercooked since they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.

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Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Stir in the onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

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Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked noodles, diced ham, peas, and about half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl with the sauce. Stir everything gently until well coated and evenly combined.

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Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.

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Step 6: Bake

Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. If you like a crispier top, broil for the last 2–3 minutes—just keep a close eye on it.

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How Long to Cook the Leftover Ham Casserole

The casserole should bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, uncovered. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and slightly golden, and the edges are bubbling gently. If you’re starting with chilled ingredients straight from the fridge, you may need to add an extra 5 minutes to the bake time.

To get that perfectly browned top, broil for 2 to 3 minutes at the end—but don’t walk away, or it could go from golden to burnt in seconds!

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Tips for Perfect Leftover Ham Casserole

• Undercook the pasta slightly: This helps avoid mushiness after baking.
• Use a sharp cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the most flavor impact with less quantity.
• Season the sauce: Taste the soup and milk mixture before combining—adjust salt and pepper so everything is well-balanced.
• Add crunch if desired: Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs over the top before baking for a crispy finish.
• Don’t skip the grease: Lightly greasing your dish prevents any stubborn sticking or crusted edges.
• Let it rest: Give the casserole 5–10 minutes to cool after baking. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even simple casseroles can trip you up if you’re not careful. Here’s what to avoid with your Leftover Ham Casserole:

• Overcooking the pasta: Fully cooked pasta will turn mushy after baking. Always boil it slightly under.
• Using too much liquid: If you add extra milk or soup, the casserole can turn soupy rather than creamy.
• Not seasoning enough: Ham is salty, but the sauce needs its own seasoning for a flavorful result.
• Skipping the mix: Toss everything thoroughly to avoid dry patches and uneven flavor distribution.
• Overbaking: Leaving it in the oven too long can dry it out. Check it around the 25-minute mark.
• Crowding the dish: If you overpack the casserole dish, it won’t bake evenly. Spread the mixture loosely.
• Forgetting the topping: The cheese layer on top locks in moisture and creates that irresistible finish.
• Serving too hot: Letting the casserole rest briefly after baking makes it easier to cut and enhances flavor.

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What to Serve With Leftover Ham Casserole?

Casserole alone is comforting, but pairing it with a few simple sides elevates the meal even more. Here’s what I recommend:

Simple Green Salad

A fresh, lightly dressed salad cuts through the richness beautifully.

Garlic Bread

Crunchy and buttery, it’s perfect for scooping up creamy bites.

Steamed Broccoli

A bright, healthy side that’s ready in minutes and adds a pop of green.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Bursting and juicy, they add a sweet-tart contrast to the savory casserole.

Cucumber Salad

Cool and crisp, with a bit of vinegar bite to refresh your palate.

Vegetable Soup

A light starter like vegetable soup complements without overwhelming.

Cheese Platter

For a fun twist, serve a small board of mild cheeses, fruits, and crackers alongside.

Fresh Fruit Salad

Finish the meal on a sweet, light note with a refreshing bowl of seasonal fruit.

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Storage Instructions

One of the best things about Leftover Ham Casserole is how well it holds up after cooking. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerator: Allow the casserole to cool completely. Cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze it. Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat from the fridge, cover and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first, then reheat the same way.

Pro Tip: Add a splash of milk or a sprinkle of extra cheese before reheating to keep the casserole moist and creamy.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a rough estimate per serving (assuming 8 servings from the casserole):

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 950mg

Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the exact ingredients you use—like different types of cheese or if you swap in extra veggies.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?

You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, the sauce is bubbling around the edges, and the top turns golden. If you want extra certainty, you can insert a thermometer—the center should be about 165°F (74°C).

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Can I make Leftover Ham Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready. Just add 5–10 extra minutes to the bake time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

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What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?

No problem. Substitute with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even make a homemade béchamel sauce using butter, flour, and milk.

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Can I freeze individual portions?

Yes! Freezing individual portions is a great idea for easy grab-and-go meals. Use airtight containers or wrap tightly in foil and store for up to 3 months.

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What vegetables can I add to the casserole?

Beyond peas, you can toss in cooked broccoli, spinach, green beans, or even sautéed mushrooms and onions. Just make sure to cook or thaw them first so they don’t release extra water.

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How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Make sure the sauce is creamy before baking, and cover the dish with foil if you notice it browning too quickly. A little sprinkle of milk or extra cheese during reheating also helps.

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Can I use other cheeses besides cheddar?

Definitely! Swiss, Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a cheddar blend work beautifully. A sharper cheese adds more flavor punch without needing a ton.

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Is this casserole gluten-free?

As written, it’s not, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free cream soup or homemade sauce.

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Conclusion

When you have leftover ham and you’re craving something hearty, Leftover Ham Casserole is the comforting solution that always hits the spot. It’s a creamy, cheesy bake that turns simple ingredients into a dish the whole family will devour—and one that can be adapted to whatever you have on hand. Whether you’re making it ahead, freezing it for later, or serving it fresh out of the oven, this casserole is the kind of cozy, satisfying meal that brings everyone back for seconds. 🍴

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