If you’ve ever wished for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then the Creamy Ham Noodle Casserole with Cheddar, Parmesan, and Panko Breadcrumb Topping Recipe is your new best friend. This dish combines tender wide egg noodles with luscious cheeses, savory ham, and sweet corn all coated in a velvety, cheesy sauce. Topped with a golden, crunchy layer of panko breadcrumbs mixed with butter, parmesan, and fresh parsley, it’s a perfect blend of creamy and crispy textures that’s downright irresistible. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck favorite, this casserole delivers satisfying flavors and a cozy vibe that always brings everyone back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this casserole lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in creating a harmonious balance of flavor and texture. From the richness of butter and cheeses to the comforting chew of wide egg noodles and the delightful crunch of panko on top, every element works together beautifully.
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter: Melts smoothly to form the base of the creamy sauce.
- ½ cup All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- 2½ cups Hot Whole Milk: Adds richness; warming it prevents lumps in the sauce.
- 1 cup Grated Cheddar: Provides sharp, melty goodness with classic cheesy flavor.
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan: Adds savory depth and a slight nuttiness.
- 1 teaspoon Mustard: Lifts flavor with a subtle tang that enhances the cheese.
- 1 teaspoon Seasoning (your choice): Customize the casserole’s character to your taste.
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper: Gives just the right hint of spice to balance richness.
- 1 (10 oz) Can Whole Corn, drained: Brings bursts of sweet juiciness and color.
- 3 cups Wide Egg Noodles: The ideal noodle shape to hold onto every bit of creamy sauce.
- 2 cups Cubed Leftover Ham: Adds hearty, savory chunks of protein.
- 2 tablespoons Melted Butter (for topping): Essential for creating that golden, crisp breadcrumb crust.
- ½ cup Panko Breadcrumbs: Gives a light, crispy topping texture.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley, chopped: Offers a fresh, herbal brightness for the topping.
- ¼ cup Parmesan, grated: Mixed in the topping for an extra boost of rich flavor.
How to Make Creamy Ham Noodle Casserole with Cheddar, Parmesan, and Panko Breadcrumb Topping Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F. This ensures it’s ready and hot once your casserole is assembled, so you get that perfect bake with a bubbling sauce and crispy topping.
Step 2: Make the Roux Base
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then whisk in the flour. Keep stirring continuously to cook out the raw flour taste and create a smooth, thick paste. This roux is the secret to that wonderfully creamy sauce.
Step 3: Add Warm Milk Slowly
Pour in the hot milk gradually, stirring constantly so the sauce stays silky without lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil to activate the thickening power of the roux, creating a velvety base to carry the cheese and flavors.
Step 4: Stir in Cheeses and Seasonings
Remove the skillet from heat and add the grated cheddar and parmesan, stirring until they melt completely. Then fold in the mustard, your choice of seasonings, and black pepper, which all bring out layers of savory, tangy, and comforting notes in the sauce.
Step 5: Combine Noodles, Corn, Ham, and Sauce
Grease a 9×7 casserole dish lightly. Toss the cooked wide egg noodles with the drained corn and cubed ham, then pour the luscious cheese sauce over everything. Spread this mixture evenly in the casserole dish to ensure each bite is full of creamy, hammy goodness.
Step 6: Prepare and Add the Panko Breadcrumb Topping
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, and grated parmesan. Sprinkle this fragrant, buttery topping evenly over the casserole, setting the stage for a beautifully golden crust.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown and the sauce is bubbling temptingly around the edges.
How to Serve Creamy Ham Noodle Casserole with Cheddar, Parmesan, and Panko Breadcrumb Topping Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top adds a refreshing pop of color and a light herbal note that beautifully complements the rich, cheesy casserole. For a bit of extra zing, a dusting of smoked paprika or a drizzle of hot sauce can awaken your taste buds.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy ham noodle casserole with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance out the richness, or serve alongside steamed broccoli or green beans for a bright, nutritious contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in mini ramekins and bake them for a fun, personal touch that’s perfect for dinner parties or potlucks. You can also turn the leftovers into a layered pasta bake with extra cheese and fresh herbs for a whole new spin on this classic recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole holds its delicious flavors well, making it an ideal make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it — cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes if still cold.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through. Removing the foil in the last 5 minutes will help revive the crispy breadcrumb topping. Microwave reheating works fast but may soften the crunchy top.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar and parmesan provide the classic flavor combo for this Creamy Ham Noodle Casserole with Cheddar, Parmesan, and Panko Breadcrumb Topping Recipe, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for extra meltiness or gouda for a smoky twist.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Also, make sure your egg noodles are gluten-free or swap them for gluten-free pasta to keep the dish safe for sensitive eaters.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, swap butter for a plant-based alternative, replace whole milk with almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free cheese substitutes. Note that the flavor and texture will vary, but it will still be deliciously comforting.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! This recipe is very adaptable. Consider tossing in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers to increase the veggie content and add fresh flavor and color to your casserole.
What is the best way to cook the egg noodles?
Cook your wide egg noodles just until al dente according to package instructions, then drain and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking. This keeps them from becoming mushy in the casserole and allows them to hold their shape and texture beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Ham Noodle Casserole with Cheddar, Parmesan, and Panko Breadcrumb Topping Recipe is a wonderful way to turn simple ingredients into something spectacularly comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a make-ahead dish full of cheesy, hammy goodness, it’s bound to become one of your all-time favorites. Give it a try soon — I promise it’ll warm your heart as much as your stomach!
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Creamy Ham Noodle Casserole with Cheddar, Parmesan, and Panko Breadcrumb Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings (approximately 8 cups)
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Ham Casserole recipe is perfect for using up leftover ham combined with a creamy cheese sauce, wide egg noodles, and sweet corn baked to golden perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping. A delicious and hearty meal that can easily serve a family or group of eight.
Ingredients
Cheese Sauce
- ½ Cup Unsalted Butter
- ½ Cup All-Purpose Flour
- 2½ Cups Whole Milk, hot
- 1 Cup Cheddar Cheese, grated
- ½ Cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
- 1 Teaspoon Mustard
- 1 Teaspoon Seasonings (such as dried herbs)
- ½ Teaspoon Black Pepper
Main Ingredients
- 1 (10 oz) Can Whole Kernel Corn, drained
- 3 Cups Wide Egg Noodles (cooked according to package instructions)
- 2 Cups Leftover Ham, cubed
Topping
- 2 Tablespoons Melted Butter
- ½ Cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh Parsley, chopped
- ¼ Cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Make the Roux: Melt ½ cup of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ½ cup of all-purpose flour and stir continuously to form a smooth paste and cook until it thickens slightly.
- Add Milk: Slowly pour in the heated 2½ cups of whole milk while stirring constantly to prevent lumps and create a smooth sauce.
- Boil and Add Cheese: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and stir in 1 cup grated cheddar cheese and ½ cup grated parmesan until fully melted. Season with 1 teaspoon mustard, 1 teaspoon seasonal herbs, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Remove from heat once combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×7-inch casserole dish. In a large bowl, combine the cooked wide egg noodles, drained corn, cubed ham, and cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly and spread evenly into the prepared casserole dish.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons melted butter, ½ cup panko breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, and ¼ cup grated parmesan. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
Notes
- Use wide egg noodles cooked al dente for the best texture in the casserole.
- Feel free to substitute ham with cooked turkey or chicken if preferred.
- The seasoning can be adjusted based on your favorite herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning.
- For a crispier topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated.
