Ham Pasta Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Fried Ice Cream: the very name sounds like an impossible dream, doesn’t it? A paradox of hot and cold, crispy and creamy, it’s a dessert that’s guaranteed to turn heads and tantalize taste buds. Have you ever wondered how such a seemingly contradictory dish could exist? Well, wonder no more, because I’m about to share my foolproof recipe for creating this magical treat in your own kitchen!

While the exact origins of fried ice cream are debated, with claims ranging from the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair to various restaurants in the early 20th century, its modern iteration is often associated with Mexican restaurants in the United States. Regardless of its true birthplace, this dessert has captured hearts (and stomachs!) with its delightful contrast of textures and temperatures.

What’s not to love? Imagine biting into a warm, crunchy shell, only to be met with a burst of cold, creamy ice cream. The combination is simply irresistible! Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a little bit of culinary magic. So, are you ready to embark on this delicious adventure? Let’s get started!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Cooking the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the casserole.
3. Drain the pasta well in a colander. Set aside.

Making the Cheese Sauce:

1. In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Be careful not to burn the roux, or it will give the sauce a bitter taste.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. This helps prevent lumps from forming.
4. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
7. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
8. Add 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Make sure all the cheese is fully melted for the best texture.

Assembling the Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cheese sauce, diced ham, and thawed peas. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Greasing the dish prevents the casserole from sticking.
4. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and the 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix well.
5. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs over the cheese.

Baking the Casserole:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent the breadcrumbs from burning.
2. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes it easier to serve.
3. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

• Pasta Options: Feel free to use any pasta shape you like. Penne, rotini, elbow macaroni, and shells all work well.
• Cheese Variations: You can substitute some of the cheddar cheese with other cheeses, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack.
• Vegetable Additions: Add other vegetables to the casserole, such as broccoli florets, chopped carrots, or sliced mushrooms. Sauté the vegetables before adding them to the casserole.
• Meat Substitutions: If you don’t have ham, you can use cooked chicken, turkey, or bacon.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a little heat.
• Creamier Sauce: For an even creamier sauce, substitute 1 cup of the milk with heavy cream.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Freezing Instructions: Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. You may need to add a little extra milk to the casserole before baking, as the sauce may thicken during freezing.

Serving Suggestions:

This ham pasta casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a holiday gathering.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: 500-600 per serving
• Protein: 30-40 grams per serving
• Fat: 25-35 grams per serving
• Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams per serving

Why This Recipe Works:

This ham pasta casserole is a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The creamy cheese sauce, combined with the savory ham and tender pasta, creates a delicious and satisfying meal. The addition of peas adds a touch of sweetness and freshness, while the breadcrumb topping provides a nice textural contrast. This recipe is also versatile and can be easily customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

Troubleshooting:

• Lumpy Cheese Sauce: If your cheese sauce is lumpy, try whisking it vigorously or using an immersion blender to smooth it out. You can also strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve.
• Dry Casserole: If the casserole seems dry after baking, add a little extra milk or cheese sauce before serving.
• Burnt Topping: If the breadcrumb topping is browning too quickly, cover the casserole with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Equipment Needed:

• Large pot
• Colander
• Large saucepan
• Whisk
• Large bowl
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Small bowl

Storage Instructions:

Leftover ham pasta casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this delicious and easy ham pasta casserole recipe! It’s a family favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Conclusion:

This ham pasta casserole isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a warm, comforting hug in a dish, and I truly believe you need to experience it! From the creamy, cheesy sauce to the satisfying bite of perfectly cooked pasta and the savory goodness of ham, every element works in perfect harmony. It’s the kind of meal that brings smiles to faces and leaves everyone feeling content and satisfied.

But what truly elevates this casserole to “must-try” status is its incredible versatility. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover holiday ham, transforming it into something entirely new and exciting. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable to your own personal preferences and what you have on hand.

Looking for serving suggestions? A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect counterpoint to the richness of the casserole. Steamed green beans or asparagus also make excellent side dishes. And for a truly decadent experience, try serving it with a side of garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Now, let’s talk variations! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar would all add a unique twist. You could also incorporate vegetables like peas, broccoli florets, or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. For a vegetarian option, you can easily substitute the ham with smoked tofu or roasted vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potatoes. The possibilities are truly endless!

Another great variation is to add a crispy topping. A simple mixture of breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese, sprinkled over the top before baking, will create a delightful textural contrast. You could also use crushed crackers or even potato chips for a fun and unexpected twist.

I’ve made this ham pasta casserole countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even a casual weekend gathering. It’s also incredibly freezer-friendly, so you can easily make a batch ahead of time and have a delicious meal ready to go whenever you need it.

But the best part about this recipe is that it’s truly foolproof. Even if you’re not an experienced cook, you can easily whip up this casserole with confidence. The instructions are simple and straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available.

So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try. I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. And more importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments below – I can’t wait to see your creations! Let’s spread the joy of this comforting and delicious ham pasta casserole far and wide! Happy cooking!