Chef Mitchell preparing Savory Ham Cheese Casserole
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Savory Ham Cheese Casserole during a family gathering, and it quickly became a favorite. Over the years, I perfected the recipe to enhance the flavors and ensure the perfect cheesy texture. It's a dish that reminds me of home, and I'm excited to share it with others. The combination of creamy cheese and savory ham makes it a memorable meal."

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, I have a passion for creating comforting and delicious dinner recipes. My expertise lies in combining traditional flavors with modern techniques. I love sharing my culinary journey and helping others create memorable meals for their families.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Savory Ham Cheese Casserole served on a plate

Why This Savory Ham Cheese Casserole Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its simplicity and the comforting combination of ham and cheese. The use of two types of cheese adds depth of flavor, while the creamy sauce ensures a rich texture. It's a dish that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

The technique of mixing eggs and cream to create a custard-like base is key to the casserole’s success. This helps bind the ingredients, ensuring every bite is flavorful and satisfying. The addition of bread crumbs on top provides a perfect crunchy contrast to the creamy filling.

💡 Professional Tip

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some sautéed onions or bell peppers to the mixture. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a beautiful color to the casserole. Be sure not to overbake to maintain the creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This will help ensure even cooking.

If you want a gluten-free option, you can substitute gluten-free pasta or use quinoa as a base. Cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles can also work for a lighter version. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary based on the substitute you choose.

The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbling around the edges. You can also insert a knife in the center; if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving for better slicing.

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you're ready to bake it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. This is a great option for meal prep.

This casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread or a light soup to complement the rich flavors of the casserole.

When stored properly in an airtight container, the casserole can last about 3-4 days in the fridge. Be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving to ensure food safety and maintain flavor.

Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for making in advance. You can prepare it a day before and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This saves time and makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes. Cover it with foil to prevent over-browning. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick reheat, but the oven yields a better texture.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your casserole turns out dry, it may lack sufficient moisture.

Solution: To remedy this, consider adding more cream or milk to the mixture before baking. You can also cover the casserole with foil during the first half of baking to retain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the top of your casserole isn't crispy, it may not have baked long enough.

Solution: To achieve a crispy top, make sure to bake it uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes, allowing the bread crumbs to brown nicely.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooking can result in a rubbery texture.

Prevention: Keep a close eye on the baking time and use a timer. If you notice it browning too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent further overcooking.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked center can be disappointing when serving.

Recovery: If you find that the center is undercooked, return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. Check for doneness again before serving.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior indicates that the casserole may have been placed too close to the heating element.

Prevention: To prevent this, ensure your dish is centered in the oven and monitor it closely. If necessary, cover the top with foil during the last stages of baking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the casserole is too sweet, consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: For overly salty dishes, serve with a side of plain rice or bread to absorb some of the saltiness.

Bland: If it's bland, enhance the flavor with extra spices or herbs, such as thyme or parsley.

Fresh ingredients for Savory Ham Cheese Casserole

Essential Ingredients for Savory Ham Cheese Casserole

The key to a delicious Savory Ham Cheese Casserole lies in its ingredients. Using quality diced ham and a mix of cheeses ensures a rich flavor profile. The choice of pasta also plays a crucial role in the dish's texture and heartiness.

I recommend using freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and flavor. The cream and milk combination provides a luxurious texture that makes every bite enjoyable. Fresh ingredients contribute to the overall quality of the casserole.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Cooked Ham: Using high-quality cooked ham enhances the flavor of the casserole. Look for ham that is not overly salty and has a good balance of sweetness.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds depth to the dish. Grating the cheese yourself can improve the texture and melting quality, making for a creamier casserole.
  • Pasta: Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well, like penne or fusilli. Make sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when baked.
Cooking process for Savory Ham Cheese Casserole

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for this casserole is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Start by preparing the ingredients and mixing the ham, cheeses, and seasonings. The egg and cream mixture is then combined to create a custard that binds everything together.

When baking, ensure the casserole is evenly distributed in the dish for uniform cooking. Baking it uncovered for the final minutes allows for a golden, crispy top that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

Key Technique for Perfect Savory Ham Cheese Casserole

The most important technique is mixing the custard base thoroughly before adding it to the casserole. This ensures an even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the dish. Additionally, maintaining close attention to baking times will help achieve the perfect consistency.

Savory Ham Cheese Casserole

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup flour
    All-purpose
  • 2 cups milk
    Whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    To taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    Freshly ground

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups cooked ham, diced
    Use leftover ham for best flavor
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    Sharp for a bolder taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    For creaminess
  • 1 cup cooked pasta, like penne or fusilli
    Cook until al dente
  • 1 cup milk
    Whole milk preferred
  • 1 cup heavy cream
    For richness
  • 3 large eggs
    Bind the mixture
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    Freshly ground
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    For tanginess
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
    For topping
  • 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing
    To prevent sticking

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Prepare Baking Dish

    Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.

  3. Cook Pasta

    Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  4. Mix Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine the diced ham, cooked pasta, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and Dijon mustard.

  5. Prepare Egg Mixture

    In another bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, and eggs. Pour this mixture over the ham and pasta mix.

  6. Combine and Pour

    Stir well to combine all ingredients, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

  7. Top with Bread Crumbs

    Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.

  8. Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

  9. Serve

    Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover Savory Ham Cheese Casserole, allow it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole can be served with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can also enhance the flavors when serving.

Recipe Variations

For a different twist, you can add vegetables like broccoli or spinach to the casserole for added nutrition. Substituting different cheeses or using leftover turkey instead of ham are great ways to customize this dish.