If you're searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with the savory goodness of ham and cheese, look no further! Our Baked Ham Cheese Pasta Casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner that promises to delight your taste buds and satisfy your cravings. With just 15 minutes of prep and a mere 30 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Dive into this creamy, cheesy delight and discover why it’s a favorite among home cooks everywhere!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 300g pasta
- 200g cooked ham, diced
- 200g shredded cheese
- 1 can (400g) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well blended.
- Add the cooked pasta, diced ham, and half of the shredded cheese to the soup mixture. Gently fold all ingredients together until the pasta and ham are evenly coated.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top to create a melted cheese layer.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chopped green onions if desired.
Tips
- Pasta Choice: Opt for short pasta shapes like penne or rotini, as they hold onto the creamy sauce better and provide a delightful texture in every bite.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix and match your cheeses! Adding a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and even a touch of parmesan can elevate the flavor profile.
- Extra Flavor: For an added kick, consider incorporating sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even some cooked broccoli into the mix for a veggie boost.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting time after baking! Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes helps it set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
- Garnish for Appeal: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh taste that complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 80mg
