Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this irresistibly creamy Cheesy Ham Casserole, a perfect way to use leftover ham. Packed with tender elbow macaroni, savory chunks of cooked ham, vibrant green peas, and a velvety cheddar cheese sauce, this dish delivers mouthwatering flavor in every bite. Topped with a delightful crispy layer of Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs, it bakes to golden perfection in just 30 minutes. Easy to prepare and satisfyingly hearty, this casserole is an ideal weeknight dinner recipe that will please the whole family. Plus, it's freezer-friendly for a make-ahead meal! Your new go-to recipe for cozy nights is just a bake away.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to combine.
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken, about 5 minutes.
Once the milk has thickened, reduce the heat and add in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has fully melted into a smooth sauce.
Stir in the cooked ham, frozen peas, salt, and black pepper into the cheese sauce until well mixed.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese and ham mixture, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Calories |
3375 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 155.8 g | 200% | |
| Saturated Fat | 90.1 g | 450% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 648 mg | 216% | |
| Sodium | 9777 mg | 425% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 280.8 g | 102% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.0 g | 68% | |
| Total Sugars | 51.6 g | ||
| Protein | 218.4 g | 437% | |
| Vitamin D | 8.1 mcg | 40% | |
| Calcium | 2967 mg | 228% | |
| Iron | 12.4 mg | 69% | |
| Potassium | 3362 mg | 72% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.