Best Another Leftover Ham Casserole Recipes

Leftover ham is a common ingredient that many home cooks often wonder what to do with. One tasty and simple solution to this conundrum is to make a leftover ham casserole. This dish can be prepared in many different ways, and each recipe offers unique blends of flavors and textures.

Why Make a Leftover Ham Casserole?

Using leftover ham in a casserole is an excellent way to stretch your food budget. It allows you to use up what you have on hand, minimizing waste and saving money. Additionally, these casseroles are typically easy to make and can be served as a complete meal, which is especially useful on busy weeknights.

Classic Ham and Cheese Casserole

One of the most popular and traditional ways to use leftover ham in a casserole is by combining it with cheese. This classic recipe usually consists of cooked pasta, diced ham, and a creamy cheese sauce. It's a comforting and filling dish that's perfect for colder months.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of cooked pasta
• 2 cups of diced cooked ham
• 2 cups of shredded cheese
• 3 tbsp. of butter
• 3 tbsp. of flour
• 2 cups of milk
• 1/2 tsp. of salt
• 1/4 tsp. of black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the pasta according to package directions and set it aside.
3. In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk until smooth.
5. Slowly pour the milk into the saucepan while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
6. Add the salt and black pepper to the saucepan and whisk until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the diced ham and shredded cheese.
8. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese and ham sauce and mix well.
9. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Ham and Potato Casserole

Another popular way to use up leftover ham is by combining it with potatoes. A leftover ham and potato casserole is hearty and satisfying, making it perfect for a filling lunch or comforting dinner. This recipe is usually easy to make and can be customized with additional vegetables or seasonings.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of cooked and diced potatoes
• 2 cups of diced cooked ham
• 1/2 cup of chopped onion
• 1/2 cup of chopped green bell pepper
• 2 cups of shredded cheese
• 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 3/4 cup of milk
• 1/4 tsp. of black pepper
• 1/2 tsp. of paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, diced ham, chopped onion, and chopped green bell pepper.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and paprika until smooth.
4. Add the shredded cheese to the soup mixture and stir to combine.
5. Pour the soup and cheese mixture over the potato and ham mixture and stir until well coated.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Ham and Broccoli Casserole

A leftover ham and broccoli casserole is a healthier option that's packed with nutrients and flavor. This dish usually consists of fresh or frozen broccoli, cooked ham, and a creamy sauce. It's a delicious and simple way to enjoy a nutritious meal that's filling and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of fresh or frozen broccoli florets
• 2 cups of diced cooked ham
• 2 cups of shredded cheese
• 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1 tbsp. of Dijon mustard
• 1 clove of minced garlic
• 1/4 tsp. of black pepper
• 1/4 tsp. of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, diced ham, and shredded cheese.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth.
4. Pour the soup and cheese mixture over the broccoli and ham mixture and stir until well coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Conclusion

A leftover ham casserole is a simple and delicious way to use up leftover ham while making a filling and satisfying meal. With many different recipes to choose from, each offering unique flavors and textures, it's easy to find a recipe that suits your taste and preferences. So the next time you're wondering what to do with leftover ham, consider making a casserole – your taste buds (and wallet) will thank you!

Ham is a favorite meat in many households, especially during holiday seasons. It is flavorful, versatile and there are several ways of preparing it for different meals. However, sometimes we may end up with leftovers. Luckily, ham is one of those meats that taste even better when reheated. One of the best ways to use leftover ham is to make casseroles. These are easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some valuable tips to help you make another leftover ham casserole recipe.

1. Choose the right ingredients

When it comes to making casseroles, the ingredients you use will make all the difference in the final product. In addition to the leftover ham, look for other ingredients that will add flavor and texture. Some good options include vegetables like peas, broccoli, carrots, and onions. You can also add cheese or cream of mushroom soup to create a creamy texture. Choose ingredients that are fresh and in season for the best results.

2. Use the right amount of ham

The amount of ham you use in your casserole will depend on how much you have left over. However, it is important to remember that ham is a strong flavor and can easily overpower other ingredients. As a general rule, aim to use about 1 to 2 cups of ham for a casserole that serves 4 to 6 people. You can always add more ham if needed but it's difficult to dial back the flavors.

3. Experiment with different spices

Spices can make a huge difference in the flavor of your casserole. If you are looking to try something new, consider adding different spices to your recipe. For example, you can add some cumin and chili powder for a Mexican-style casserole. If you are making a creamy casserole, try adding some nutmeg or thyme for a more subtle but rich flavor.

4. Add some crunch

Casseroles can sometimes be too soft in texture. To add some crunch, try adding some toppings. For example, you can add breadcrumbs or croutons to the top of your casserole before baking. You can also add some nuts like almonds or pecans for a nutty flavor and texture. Alternatively, you can add some vegetables like sliced carrots or bell peppers to add some texture and color.

5. Use a variety of cheeses

Cheese is a popular ingredient in many casseroles as it adds flavor and richness to the dish. However, don't limit yourself to just one type of cheese. Try using a variety of cheeses in your casserole. For example, you can use cheddar cheese for a tangy flavor, parmesan cheese for a salty flavor and mozzarella cheese for a stretchy texture. Alternatively, you can use a cheese blend that combines different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.

6. Mix up the base

Most casseroles are made with a cream or cheese base, but this doesn't have to be the case. You can experiment with different types of bases to achieve different flavors and textures. For example, you can use a tomato sauce or a white wine sauce instead of cream. You can also use different types of broth like chicken or vegetable for a savory flavor.

7. Don't be afraid to make changes

Casseroles are a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste. Don't be afraid to make changes to the recipe to create something truly unique. You can add more or less of an ingredient depending on your preference. You can also switch out ingredients for something else. For example, if you don't like peas, you can try using green beans instead.

Conclusion

Leftover ham can be used in several ways, and casseroles are a great option. With these valuable tips, you can create another leftover ham casserole recipe that is delicious, satisfying and unique. Remember to use the right ingredients, experiment with different spices and toppings, and don't be afraid to make changes. Whether you are feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting meal, a leftover ham casserole is always a good choice.