Ham and Noodle Bake is a comforting, hearty casserole that brings together tender noodles, savory ham, and a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with melted cheese and baked to perfection. This dish is a fantastic way to use up leftover ham, creating a filling and flavorful meal that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The combination of creamy sauce, chewy noodles, and smoky ham makes this dish irresistible, while the cheesy, golden topping adds just the right amount of decadence.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 1/2 cups frozen peas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Noodles:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, diced ham, frozen peas, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Bake:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top, and if desired, add breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.
- Serve:
- Let the Ham and Noodle Bake cool for a few minutes before serving.
This Ham and Noodle Bake is a comforting, cheesy dish that’s perfect for any occasion, offering a delicious balance of savory ham, tender noodles, and rich, creamy sauce. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that the whole family will love!
