Cheesy Ham and Noodle Casserole

This is a great way to use up leftover ham from the holidays. Although, I like this dish so much I often buy ham just to make it! It is good comfort food.

Start by making a simple white sauce: melt the butter over medium heat in a medium saucepan, and add the flour, cooking and stirring until it is bubbly.



Add the milk,



and continue to cook and stir until the sauce boils and thickens slightly. Remove from the heat, and add the salt and cheese. (I find it easier to get the cheese to melt if I cut it into small chunks.) Note: If you are averse to processed cheese, I have also used grated sharp cheddar for the sauce with good results; and a mixture of cheddar and Swiss.



Stir well until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Then add the drained pasta,



ham



and peas.



After you've mixed it all together good, pour it into a small casserole dish.



Then combine the breadcrumbs and the Italian seasoning,



and sprinkle over the casserole.



Bake for about 30 minutes or until topping is brown and casserole is bubbly.

Need more ham ideas? Try Wild Rice Quiche, Double Corn and Potato Chowder, and Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Ham Casserole.

Get more inspiration at Friday Food, Foodie Friday and Food on Fridays.

Cheesy Ham and Noodle Casserole

2 Tbsp. butter
2 Tbsp. flour
1 cup milk
1 cup processed American cheese (Velveeta) - or use grated sharp cheddar (see note above)
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups diced, fully cooked ham
1 1/2 cups small pasta like gemelli or rotini (dry measurement)
1 cup frozen peas, thawed
1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
2 tsp. Italian seasoning

Cook pasta as package directs. Meanwhile, in saucepan, melt 2 Tbsp. butter, stir in flour until smooth. Gradually add milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat; cook and stir for 2 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in cheese and salt and stir until cheese is melted. Add ham, noodles, and peas.

Pour into greased 1 quart baking dish. Combine breadcrumbs and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over casserole. Bake, uncovered, at 350 for 30 minutes or until heated through. Serves 4.