Lightningfast Amish Ham Noodle Bake

Recipe Introduction

Ever had one of those days where even thinking about dinner feels like climbing Everest? That's where this Quick Amish Country Casserole Family favorite comes in.

Honestly, it's a lifesaver! This recipe offers a creamy, cheesy comfort that satisfies every time.

What is this Cheesy Dream

This recipe has roots in traditional Amish Dinners , a simple yet hearty fare. I've tweaked it to be ready in under an hour. It makes enough for 6-8 hungry folks.

Casserole Easy for Anyone

The beauty of this casserole easy dish lies in its simplicity. It is packed with flavor and Family Friendly Casserole Recipes .

A great source of protein and carbs for those busy weeknights. Plus, it's the perfect excuse to use up leftover ham from the holidays.

Getting Started with Flavor

Alright, let's dive into the ingredients for this ham and noodle casserole recipe , shall we? We're talking about pantry staples, things you probably already have.

Main Ingredients: Your Shopping List

First, you'll need a pound of wide egg noodles. Then, unsalted butter, onion, garlic, milk, flour, salt, pepper, nutmeg (optional), cheddar cheese, and cooked ham.

For the topping, just buttery crackers and more melted butter.

The Creamiest Cheesy Bliss

Before we get to it, I wanted to share a little story. The first time I made this, my picky eater declared it "the best thing ever!".

From then on, it became a quick weeknight casserole regular. I bet this will bring you back to Southern Casseroles you used to make!

Your Path to Comfort

This Quick Amish Country Casserole Family bake is more than just food. It is a hug in a dish. It will bring comfort and a taste of nostalgia with every bite.

Alright, let’s dive into what you need to make this Quick Amish Country Casserole Family favorite happen! Seriously, this recipe is so easy. Even I, queen of kitchen disasters, can nail it.

Ingredients & Equipment

You know when you just want a casserole easy enough for a weeknight? This is it. The ingredients are pretty standard, and most of you probably have them kicking about anyway.

Let's have a gander!

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) wide egg noodles The star of our show! Look for good quality noodles that hold their shape. Nobody wants mush.
• 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter This is for the flavour base, so don't scrimp!
• ½ cup (60g) diced onion Yellow or white, whatever you fancy. Finely diced, mind!
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh is best, but jarred is fine in a pinch.
• 2 cups (475ml) whole milk Makes for a creamy sauce.
• ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour Helps thicken the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon salt Seasoning is key, my friend.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper Adds a bit of zing.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional) I love the warmth it adds, but feel free to skip it.
• 2 cups (230g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided – Quality cheddar makes all the difference! Go for a block and grate it yourself; pre-shredded stuff doesn't melt as well.
• 1 pound (450g) cooked ham, diced Leftover holiday ham works a treat!

This Cheesy Ham Casserole is definitely one of those Amish Dinners that sticks to your ribs!

Seasoning Notes

For that Amish comfort food recipes flavour, we're keeping it simple! Salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg are our essentials.

You can sub garlic powder if you don't have fresh garlic. Honestly, I sometimes add a pinch of dried mustard to the sauce for a bit of extra oomph.

Equipment Needed

You won't need fancy kit for this family friendly casserole recipes .

• Large pot For cooking the noodles, obviously.
• Colander To drain those noodles.
• Large skillet or saucepan For making the cheesy sauce.
• Whisk Keeps the sauce smooth.
• 9x13 inch baking dish To bake our masterpiece!

Honestly, most of us already own all of this!

So there you have it! The ingredient list and equipment you'll need to get started. This Potluck Dishes Main Dish will be the envy of everyone.

Next up, we're cracking on with the instructions to make this Quick Weeknight Casserole a reality. You can even casserole make-ahead for those busy weeks

Alright, let’s whip up something comforting and delicious! I'm talking about a Quick Amish Country Casserole Family favorite. Think creamy, cheesy noodles, savory ham, and a crispy topping.

Honestly, it’s like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it's way easier than you think. It is perfect to make on a busy weeknight.

Lightning Fast Amish Ham & Noodle Bake: Let’s Get Started!

This casserole easy , and I mean easy . We're aiming for simple steps and minimal fuss. It delivers all the classic flavors of Amish dinners but in a fraction of the time.

Forget spending hours in the kitchen. I think that is something that we all want.

Prep Steps: Let's Get Organized

First, the essential mise en place . Get your ingredients ready. Dice the ham, shred the cheese. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Organization is key.

Time saving tip: Buy pre-diced ham if you're really short on time. No judgement here! For this Southern Casseroles , al dente noodles will hold their shape.

Also don't forget to grate your own cheese.

step-by-step: From Zero to Comfort Food Hero

1. Preheat your oven to 350° F ( 175° C) .
2. Cook 1 pound (450g) of wide egg noodles until al dente . Drain well.
3. Sauté ½ cup (60g) diced onion and 2 cloves minced garlic in 4 tablespoons (55g) butter until softened. About 5 minutes .
4. Whisk in ¼ cup (30g) flour, then gradually whisk in 2 cups (475ml) milk. Simmer until thickened. Stir in 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional). Remove from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups (175g) cheddar cheese.
5. Combine noodles, cheese sauce, and 1 pound (450g) diced ham in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Mix well.
6. Top with remaining ½ cup (55g) cheddar cheese and 1 cup (90g) crushed buttery crackers mixed with 2 tablespoons (30g) melted butter.
7. Bake for 20- 25 minutes , until golden brown and bubbly.
8. Let it stand for 5- 10 minutes before diving in. Patience, my friend!

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Casserole Game

Don't overcook the noodles! Al dente is the goal. Overcooked noodles get mushy. Also, consider this as one of your top Potluck Dishes Main Dish .

Here's your SEO list, ready to get that casserole recipe noticed online! Use good quality ham. Leftover holiday ham? Jackpot! It will give a tasty touch to your Ham and Noodle Casserole Recipe

For a Casserole make-ahead option, assemble the casserole ahead of time, but don't bake it. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

Add the topping just before baking. Also, think of it as giving your recipe a proper "leg up" in the search results, you know, like we're helping it win the Great British Baking Show of Google! It makes it a Quick Weeknight Casserole if prepped in advance.

This is a Family Friendly Casserole Recipes and is also one of the best Amish Comfort Food Recipes .

Recipe Notes for Your Quick Amish Country Casserole Family Favourite

Right then, let's get down to brass tacks with this amazing dish! This Quick Amish Country Casserole Family recipe, honestly, is one of those no-fuss dinners.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights. It also makes for a fantastic potluck dishes main dish option. I remember once I took something similar to a church picnic, and it was gone in minutes! It really has that proper Amish dinners vibe.

Serving Suggestions: How to Plate Up!

Fancy a bit of plating? You don’t need to be Gordon Ramsay. Simply spoon a generous helping into a bowl.

Garnish with a sprig of parsley for a bit of colour. A simple green salad is your best friend. It cuts through the richness nicely.

Some steamed green beans also work well. And don’t forget the apple sauce. A glass of chilled lemonade or iced tea pairs perfectly.

Basically, keep it simple and satisfying.

Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh!

Leftovers, if there are any? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be good for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently in the microwave or oven. It's definitely a casserole easy to keep. I always think this casserole is better the next day.

But, like, who am I kidding? It barely lasts 24 hours!

Want to freeze it? Absolutely! Make sure it’s completely cool. Then wrap it well in cling film and foil. It'll keep for up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Quick weeknight casserole that's ready when you are, what's not to love?

Variations: Spicing Things Up!

Got dietary needs? No problem. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free egg noodles and crushed gluten-free crackers. Boom. Sorted.

Want to go veggie? Ditch the ham and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. It makes a smashing Amish comfort food recipes . I’ve done it myself, and it’s surprisingly delicious.

Seasonal swap? Use butternut squash in the autumn for a sweet twist. Or add some asparagus in the spring for freshness.

The great thing about Southern casseroles is that you can tailor it to your taste.

Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff!

Each serving of this cheesy ham casserole has about 450-550 calories. You'll also get a good hit of protein (25-30g), mainly from the ham and cheese.

Also a nice bit of calcium, thanks to the cheese and milk. It’s not health food, but it is good for the soul.

But it’s definitely a brilliant family friendly casserole recipes .

So, there you have it! Your casserole make-ahead guide to this fantastic meal. Get cooking, and enjoy every single bite! I am sure that will become the star in your recipe collection.

If you like the classic flavor of Ham and Noodle Casserole Recipe get ready to love our version.