Skip to Content

Creamy Ham and Noodle Casserole

By: Author Andrew Gray

Posted on Last updated:

0 Comments
Jump to Recipe

This casserole is everything you want from a cozy, weeknight dinner—warm, creamy, and full of flavor.
Creamy Ham and Noodle Casserole is built with tender egg noodles, chunks of savory ham, and a rich cream sauce that brings it all together. A little melted cheese on top seals the deal.

A close-up photograph of a creamy pasta casserole in a white ceramic baking dish. The dish contains wide egg noodles in a rich, golden cheese sauce, topped with chunks of cooked ham and fresh green parsley leaves scattered across the surface. A silver serving spoon rests in the dish. The pasta has a glossy, melted cheese coating that browns slightly in spots. In the background, partially visible, is a white plate with a fresh green salad containing mixed greens and purple cabbage. The scene is set on a dark wooden surface with visible wood grain texture. Fresh parsley sprigs are scattered around the dish as garnish. The lighting is warm and directional, highlighting the cheesy surface of the pasta dish. The composition is shot from a slightly elevated angle, showing the full contents of the baking dish. Save for Later!

It’s one of those meals that turns leftovers into something comforting and delicious. Whether you’re using up holiday ham or just want an easy make-ahead dish, this casserole delivers every time.

Simple ingredients, classic flavors, and easy to make—it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a go-to.

Why This Ham Casserole Is So Reliable

You only need one dish, some cooked noodles, and a few creamy basics to get a dinner that feels like you really cooked—even if it took 20 minutes to toss together.

  • Uses up leftover ham – Perfect for post-holiday meals
  • Creamy and filling – Classic comfort that’s always welcome
  • Flexible ingredients – Swap in frozen peas, mushrooms, or cheddar
  • Family-friendly – Mild flavors and cheesy goodness that everyone eats
  • Make-ahead approved – Prep it earlier, bake it later

It’s a crowd-pleaser without any complicated steps.

What You’ll Need to Make It

This is a basic pantry-and-fridge combo—easy to shop for and even easier to tweak.

A top-down view of ingredients laid out on a textured brown surface. In the center, a white ceramic bowl contains cooked yellow spaghetti noodles. To the right, a clear glass baking dish with handles contains shredded white cheese. A white plate in the center contains diced pink ham. Two small white bowls contain bright green peas - one raw and one cooked. A small white bowl contains yellow cheddar cheese, and another contains white mayonnaise. A wedge of pale yellow Parmesan cheese sits on the surface. A wooden spoon with a dark handle rests on the right side. Two small white ceramic cups contain white cream. The ingredients are arranged in a circular pattern, creating a flat lay composition. The lighting is bright and even, casting subtle shadows beneath the bowls and ingredients. The surface has a mottled, rustic appearance with varying shades of brown. Save for Later!

  • Egg Noodles – Wide, cooked until just tender
  • Diced Ham – Leftover or deli-sliced, chopped small
  • Cream of Mushroom or Chicken Soup – Either works
  • Sour Cream – For that creamy tang
  • Milk – Helps loosen the sauce
  • Shredded Cheese – Cheddar or Swiss, whatever melts well
  • Frozen Peas or Mixed Veggies – Add some color and crunch
  • Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Adds depth without chopping
  • Salt & Pepper – Always to taste
  • Optional: Breadcrumb topping or crispy fried onions

How to Put It All Together

This casserole is low-effort, high comfort. You don’t even need a stovetop once the noodles are cooked.

  • Preheat your oven – Set it to 375°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
  • Cook and drain noodles – Stop when just tender; they’ll keep cooking in the oven.
  • Mix the filling – In a big bowl, stir together the soup, sour cream, milk, seasonings, cheese, ham, and veggies.
  • Add the noodles – Fold in the cooked noodles gently until everything is coated.
  • Transfer to the dish – Spread it evenly. Top with more cheese or optional breadcrumbs.
  • Bake until bubbly – Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until hot and golden on top.
  • Let it rest – Wait a few minutes before serving so it sets up a bit.

You can garnish with parsley or even a little hot sauce if that’s your vibe.

What to Serve with Creamy Ham Casserole

The casserole is filling, but a fresh side helps lighten the plate.

A close-up photograph of a creamy pasta casserole in a white ceramic baking dish. The dish contains elbow macaroni noodles covered in a rich, melted cheddar cheese sauce with a golden-yellow color. Chunks of thinly sliced pink ham are scattered throughout the dish. Fresh green parsley leaves are sprinkled on top as garnish. A silver serving spoon rests in the dish. The baking dish is placed on a dark blue cloth napkin on a wooden table surface. In the background, there is a partial view of a white plate with fresh green salad leaves. The lighting is warm and directional, creating subtle shadows and highlighting the glossy, cheesy surface of the dish. The composition is shot from a slightly elevated angle, focusing on the texture and layers of the pasta bake. Save for Later!

Side DishWhy It Works
Steamed Green BeansCrisp and clean with just a little butter or lemon
Garden SaladLight and refreshing next to creamy noodles
Roasted Brussels SproutsDeep flavor and texture contrast
Applesauce or Fruit SaladSweet and tart break from savory richness
Garlic BreadFor soaking up every last bit of sauce
Roasted CarrotsEarthy and sweet—easy to prep alongside
Cucumber Tomato SaladBright, acidic, and quick to throw together

Choose one fresh, one hearty, and the plate is perfect.

Best Ways to Store and Reheat

This dish saves well and works great for lunches or future dinners.

Storing the Leftovers

Let the casserole cool completely. Cover tightly or transfer to containers. Store in the fridge up to 4 days.

Reheating It Right

  • Oven: Bake at 350°F covered for 20–25 minutes until heated through
  • Microwave: Reheat individual portions on medium with a splash of milk
  • Skillet: Works for crisping the edges a bit while heating through

Freezer Tips

Freeze before baking, if possible. Wrap tightly and label. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

Ham Casserole FAQs

Can I use rotini or penne instead of egg noodles?

Yes, just cook until al dente and expect a slightly firmer bite.

What cheese is best?

Cheddar, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even mozzarella all work. A blend is great too.

Is this good for meal prep?

Definitely. Make it ahead and bake the day of, or store cooked portions for easy reheating.

Can I skip the soup and make my own sauce?

Absolutely. A basic roux with milk, butter, flour, and cheese makes a great swap.

Do the veggies go in frozen or thawed?

You can add them frozen—no need to thaw. They’ll cook through in the oven.

A close-up photograph of a creamy pasta casserole in a white ceramic baking dish. The dish contains wide egg noodles in a rich, golden cheese sauce, topped with chunks of cooked ham and fresh green parsley leaves scattered across the surface. A silver serving spoon rests in the dish. The pasta has a glossy, melted cheese coating that browns slightly in spots. In the background, partially visible, is a white plate with a fresh green salad containing mixed greens and purple cabbage. The scene is set on a dark wooden surface with visible wood grain texture. Fresh parsley sprigs are scattered around the dish as garnish. The lighting is warm and directional, highlighting the cheesy surface of the pasta dish. The composition is shot from a slightly elevated angle, showing the full contents of the baking dish. Save for Later!

Creamy Ham and Noodle Casserole

This creamy ham and noodle casserole is cozy, cheesy, and perfect for using up leftover ham. A classic weeknight meal that’s easy to prep and big on flavor.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Casserole, Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • Large pot For boiling egg noodles
  • Casserole Dish 9×13 baking dish

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz egg noodles cooked and drained
  • 2 cups diced ham cooked
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese plus more for topping
  • 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • optional topping breadcrumbs or fried onions

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
  • In a large bowl, mix soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Stir in diced ham, frozen peas, cooked noodles, and 1 cup cheese. Mix until everything is well coated.
  • Transfer mixture to the baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and optional breadcrumb topping.
  • Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Sub cream of chicken soup if preferred.
  • Add a splash of broth when reheating to keep creamy.
  • Freeze unbaked casserole for later use—just thaw overnight before baking.
Keyword creamy noodle bake, ham and noodle casserole, leftover ham recipe
Did you make this recipe?Mention @CooksCrafter or tag #CooksCrafter!
Recipe Rating