If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug, this Ham and Noodle Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful blend of tender egg noodles, savory diced ham, and creamy soup sauce all baked together with melty cheese that creates irresistible layers of flavor and texture. Whether you’re feeding a family or want a satisfying dish to serve friends, this casserole comes together simply but packs a punch in taste and comfort every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Ham and Noodle Casserole Recipe plays a starring role—the noodles provide the perfect base with just the right bite, the creamy soups bring depth and richness, and the ham adds a lovely smoky, salty note. Each addition, from the tangy sour cream to the melty cheese, contributes texture, color, and that cozy feeling of a home-cooked classic.
- Wide egg noodles: They cook quickly and hold sauce beautifully without getting mushy.
- Condensed cream soup (chicken, mushroom, or celery): Acts as the creamy backbone for the casserole’s sauce.
- Milk (or half milk, half chicken broth): Thins the sauce to the perfect consistency while adding subtle flavor.
- Sour cream: Brings a tangy richness that balances the savory notes.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle zing that lifts the entire flavor profile.
- Garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme or parsley: Seasonings that create depth without overpowering.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Diced cooked ham: The star protein, tender and smoky, providing the casserole’s savory heart.
- Frozen mixed vegetables (optional): Adds color, texture, and a hint of freshness.
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or a mix): Melts into gooey perfection for richness and a golden crust.
- Nonstick spray: To prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
How to Make Ham and Noodle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Oven and Noodles
Start by heating your oven to 350°F and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to keep everything from sticking. While the oven warms, cook the wide egg noodles in plenty of boiling salted water just until they are al dente—this means they still have a little bite to them, so they won’t get mushy after baking. Drain them well and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream soups, milk, and sour cream until smooth. Add the Dijon mustard for a touch of tang, then sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs like thyme or parsley, and a pinch each of salt and black pepper. This sauce brings all the flavors together into a luscious mixture that will soak into the noodles and ham.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Fold the cooked egg noodles, diced ham, and frozen mixed vegetables (no need to thaw them) gently into your creamy sauce base. Then stir in one cup of the shredded cheese to infuse the casserole with savory richness even before baking. Pour this hearty mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 4: Bake It Up
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes or until everything is hot and bubbling with joy. Once that’s achieved, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top. Pop it back into the oven uncovered for another 5 to 10 minutes to let the cheese melt to a gorgeous golden crust that will have you reaching for seconds.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, you can add a fresh herb garnish if you want to brighten the dish visually and in flavor. Serve this Ham and Noodle Casserole Recipe hot from the oven and get ready for a cozy, satisfying meal perfect for chilly nights or whenever you need comfort food that hits all the right notes.
How to Serve Ham and Noodle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or thyme sprinkled on top not only add a lovely burst of color but also bring a fresh, lively aroma that balances the richness of the casserole. A light dusting of paprika or a scattering of green onions can also make the dish pop and look welcoming on the table.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a full meal on its own, but pairing it with crisp side salads, steamed green vegetables, or a crusty bread roll can round out the dinner perfectly. For a heartier spread, roasted root vegetables or a sharp coleslaw also contrast beautifully with the creamy, cheesy casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Ham and Noodle Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for charming single servings or in a deep-dish pie crust for a fun twist everyone will love. You can also add a layer of breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan on top before baking for a crunchy topping that adds delightful texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, no worries—this casserole keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. The flavors even develop further as it sits, making for an amazing second-day meal.
Freezing
Ham and Noodle Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. Just assemble but don’t bake; cover the dish tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
For a hassle-free reheat, either microwave individual servings until warmed through or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until hot and bubbly. Removing the foil near the end helps refresh the cheesy crust.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodles in this casserole?
Absolutely! While wide egg noodles work best for their texture and sauce-holding ability, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni. Just adjust cooking times to ensure the noodles are al dente before baking.
Is it possible to make this Ham and Noodle Casserole Recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the ham and add extra vegetables or plant-based protein like mushrooms, tofu, or a meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and opt for vegetarian cheese to keep it fully plant-based.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead and refrigerate before baking?
Definitely! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What type of cheese works best for this casserole?
Cheddar and Swiss are classic choices, offering great melt and flavor. Mixing the two can give your casserole a more complex flavor. Feel free to experiment with mozzarella or Monterey Jack if you want a milder, creamier result.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the egg noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and check that your soup cans and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free to ensure the dish stays safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Final Thoughts
This Ham and Noodle Casserole Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that never fails to satisfy. It blends effortless prep with bold, comforting flavors that make every bite a treat. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cooking for yourself, this casserole will quickly become a beloved go-to. Give it a try—you’re going to love how easy and delicious home cooking can be!
Print
Ham and Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 generous ~2-cup servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Ham and Noodle Casserole combines tender egg noodles with a creamy mixture of condensed soups, sour cream, and Dijon mustard, layered with diced ham and mixed vegetables, then topped with melted cheddar or Swiss cheese. Perfectly baked until bubbly and golden, it makes a satisfying meal for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (12-oz) package wide egg noodles
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans condensed cream of chicken, cream of mushroom, or cream of celery soup
- 1 cup milk (or half milk, half chicken broth)
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or parsley
- salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cups diced cooked ham (about 1 pound)
- 1 (10-oz) bag frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or a mix; divided use)
Optional Garnish
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme)
Instructions
- Prep oven and noodles: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Cook the egg noodles in well-salted boiling water until just al dente, then drain thoroughly and set aside to prevent overcooking during baking.
- Mix the base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the two cans of condensed soup, milk (or half milk and half chicken broth), sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme or parsley, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. This creamy mixture will coat the noodles and ham, adding flavor and moisture.
- Assemble the casserole: Stir the cooked noodles into the soup mixture, then fold in the diced cooked ham and frozen mixed vegetables (no need to thaw the vegetables beforehand). Mix in 1 cup of the shredded cheese to incorporate melty richness throughout the casserole. Transfer the entire mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish.
- Bake: Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the dish is thoroughly heated and bubbly. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top, then return the casserole to the oven uncovered. Bake an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Serve and garnish: Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired, adding a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy, hearty flavors perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
Notes
- You can substitute the cream soups based on your preference or dietary restrictions.
- Using half milk and half chicken broth adds extra flavor and reduces richness slightly.
- If you omit the frozen mixed vegetables, you can add fresh vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added texture.
- The casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving; adjust baking times accordingly.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be reheated covered to retain moisture.
- For a crispier cheese topping, you can broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
