Easy Leftover Ham & Noodle Casserole (Print version)

Creamy leftover ham and noodle casserole with egg noodles, peas, cheddar, and a crisp buttery topping.

# Ingredients:

For the casserole

01 - 12 oz (340 g) wide egg noodles
02 - 3 cups (450 g) diced cooked ham
03 - 1 cup (140 g) frozen peas
04 - 1 can (10.5 oz/298 g) condensed cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
05 - 3/4 cup (180 ml) whole milk
06 - 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream
07 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
08 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
10 - 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
11 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
12 - Salt, only if needed
13 - 2 cups (225 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

For the topping

14 - 1 cup (45 g) crushed butter crackers or panko breadcrumbs
15 - 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, melted
16 - 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
02 - Boil the egg noodles in salted water for 1-2 minutes less than the package time. Drain well and set aside.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed soup, milk, sour cream, Dijon, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and a small pinch of salt if needed.
04 - Fold in the ham, frozen peas, cooked noodles, and 1 cup of cheddar. Stir gently until the noodles are coated.
05 - Spread the mixture in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup cheddar over the top.
06 - Mix the cracker crumbs with melted butter, then scatter the crumbs evenly over the cheese.
07 - Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake 10-15 minutes more, until the edges bubble and the topping is golden.
08 - Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley if using, then serve warm.

# Good to know:

01 - Cook noodles slightly underdone so they do not turn mushy in the oven.
02 - Use leftover ham within safe refrigerated storage timing.
03 - Add salt carefully because ham, cheese, and condensed soup are already seasoned.