Ham and Noodle Casserole

Need to feed a group of people in under 1 hour? Then this recipe is for you! This creamy ham and noodle casserole is flavorful and fulfilling.

From the savory bits of ham to the creamy sauce and the chewy noodles, this is one dish that everyone will look forward to.

Quick, easy, and so very tasty, this casserole recipe is one that you are going to want to bookmark for your next event. Whether you need a dish for a quick family dinner or a potluck gathering, this ham and noodle casserole is a go-to recipe for any home cook.

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

This ham and noodle casserole recipe works because it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With a simple list of ingredients like ham, noodles, and cheese, you can have the dish ready for the oven in minutes and on the table in less than 1 hour! 

Additionally, this ham and egg noodle casserole is highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients based on your own personal preferences or dietary requirements. Swap the protein, add your favorite vegetables, or use different cheeses to experiment with the flavors in this dish.

Furthermore, this combination of noodles, savory ham, and melted cheese creates a hearty, fulfilling meal that the whole family will love. 

Ingredients

Noodles:

For the best ham and noodle casserole, egg noodles are ideal due to their soft texture and ability to absorb the creamy sauce. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, try gluten-free egg noodles, brown rice pasta, or quinoa noodles. If you are making a vegan noodle casserole, consider using pasta made from chickpeas, lentils, or a vegan-friendly brand of gluten-free egg noodles. Zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash can also work for a lighter, vegetable-based twist on the classic ham noodle casserole recipe.

Ham:

Use a cooked, smoked ham for the best flavor. Diced or cubed ham from a boneless ham steak or leftover holiday ham works perfectly. If you’re looking to switch up the protein, diced chicken or turkey are excellent alternatives. Even ground beef, sausage, or canned tuna can also work well if you are looking to create a noodle casserole with a twist. For a vegan ham and noodle casserole, replace the ham with plant-based proteins that offer a similar hearty texture and flavor. Smoked or marinated tofu, tempeh, and mushrooms all work wonderfully. 

Milk:

Depending on your dietary and personal taste preferences, you can use whatever milk you have on hand to create this recipe. Whole milk or 2% milk is ideal for a more decadent sauce, while skim milk works if you want to cut back on fat. Even almond, soy, coconut, and oat milk work to make a dairy-free or vegan ham and noodle casserole.

Butter:

Butter adds a rich flavor to a ham noodle casserole, but there are plenty of alternatives if you need to adjust for dietary preferences. Regular unsalted butter is commonly used, but if you're looking for a dairy-free or vegan option, plant-based butter or margarine work well and provide a similar texture and taste. Olive oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil can also be used as a substitute, though they may slightly alter the flavor.

Seasonings:

While this tasty casserole is only seasoned with onion powder, dried mustard, salt, and pepper, there are a number of other herbs and spices that can be added to boost the flavor. Garlic powder, thyme, parsley, oregano, chives, dill, red pepper flakes, and hot sauce can all help to elevate your casserole.

Soup:

When it comes to making a creamy  casserole, the key is in the soup. While this recipe calls for cream of chicken soup, you can use any of your favorite cream soups. Cream of vegetables, broccoli, and mushrooms are all popular choices. 

Cheese:

Cheddar cheese is used to make this cheesy ham noodle casserole. However, you can feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Monterey jack, mozzarella, Swiss, and gruyere are all excellent options. Vegan, plant-based, and dairy-free cheeses also work for this recipe.

How to Make Ham and Noodle Casserole

Step One: 

Prepare the noodles according to the directions on the package and set aside.

Step Two: 

Add ham, milk, butter, pepper, salt, onion powder, ground mustard, soup, 1 cup of cheese, and all the noodles to a bowl and stir to combine.

Step Three: 

Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.

Step Four:

Bake at 375F for 30 minutes.

Step Five: 

Remove from the oven when the casserole is bubbly with a golden brown top, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.

Step Six: 

Serve this creamy ham and noodle casserole with a light side, and enjoy!

Tips

• Cook the egg noodles until they are al dente, as they will continue to cook in the ham and noodle casserole. This prevents your noodles from becoming mushy.
• Feel free to incorporate vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn into your ham and noodle bake for added nutrition, texture, and a pop of color.
• For a crispy topping on your ham and cheese noodle casserole, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with some melted butter over it before baking.

What to Serve With Ham and Noodle Casserole

This easy ham and noodle casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that balance its creamy, savory flavors.

A fresh garden salad with a tangy lemon vinaigrette adds a light, refreshing contrast, while steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots provide a healthy, colorful complement.

For an even more satisfying experience, serve your creamy ham and noodle casserole with garlic bread or dinner rolls to help soak up its rich sauce.

FAQs

Can I make a ham noodle casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole in advance, refrigerate or freeze it, and bake it when ready. This makes it a convenient option for busy nights.

How do I make a gluten-free ham and noodle casserole?

Simply use gluten-free noodles and a gluten-free cream soup or sauce to make a gluten-free version of the recipe.

What's the best way to store leftover ham and noodle casserole?

To store leftover ham and noodle casserole, cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For freezing, transfer to an airtight container, label, and freeze for up to 3 months.

More Casserole Recipes

When you want a quick and easy meal that is tasty and fulfilling, casseroles like this ham and noodle casserole are an excellent option. That's why we have collected some of our favorites to share with you for the next time you need a hearty meal in a flash.

Tater Tot Casserole

Taco Casserole

Meatball Casserole

Bisquick Sausage Casserole