Savory Spinach and Ham Noodle Casserole

Name: Savory Spinach and Ham Noodle Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz egg noodles; 2 cups diced cooked ham; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup milk; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 30 min

🍽 Serves: 6

★★★★★

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Get ready to savor a cozy, comforting dish with this Savory Spinach and Ham Noodle Casserole. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, it's packed with hearty flavors and comes together beautifully in under an hour. Let's dive into this deliciously cheesy, ham-filled delight!

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Ingredients for Savory Spinach and Ham Noodle Casserole

Egg noodles are the foundation, offering a hearty texture that holds up well to baking. Diced cooked ham adds a savory, meaty flavor; it's perfect if you have leftovers from a holiday meal. Olive oil is used to sauté the aromatics, adding a hint of richness. Fresh spinach brings a pop of color and nutrients without overpowering the dish. Diced onion and minced garlic provide a fragrant base, enhancing the overall flavor. Milk and shredded cheddar cheese work together to create a creamy sauce, while sour cream adds tanginess and richness. Salt, black pepper, and paprika are simple seasonings that elevate the dish's flavors. Lastly, grated Parmesan cheese tops it off with a golden, crispy finish.

Tips & Tricks

For a bit more kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
Swap out cheddar for pepper jack if you want a spicier version.
If you're short on time, use frozen spinach—just thaw and drain before adding.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, balancing the richness of the dish. A side of crusty bread is perfect for scooping up every cheesy bite. For a complete meal, serve with a chilled glass of white wine or a light lager.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?: Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake it when you're ready.
Can I freeze leftovers?: Absolutely! Store portions in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I use a different type of pasta?: Sure! Any sturdy pasta like penne or rotini will work well in this recipe.

Savory Spinach and Ham Noodle Casserole Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish, setting the stage for your casserole. While the oven warms up, cook the egg noodles following the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and set aside, ready for their cheesy bath.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, letting them sauté until the onion turns translucent and releases its sweet aroma. Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt, which should take just about 2 minutes. Add the diced ham, stir it all together, and remove from heat—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

In a large bowl, mix the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, salt, black pepper, and paprika. This creamy mixture is the heart of the casserole. Add in the cooked noodles and the spinach-ham mixture, stirring until everything is evenly coated. Pour this goodness into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously on top. Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Once done, let it cool slightly before serving, allowing the flavors to settle and the dish to firm up a bit.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make, ideal for busy evenings.
Packed with protein and leafy greens for a balanced meal.
Cheesy, creamy goodness that pleases the whole family.
A great way to use up leftover ham.

Ingredients

8 oz egg noodles

2 cups diced cooked ham

1 tbsp olive oil

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup diced onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup milk

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup sour cream

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp paprika

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

2. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until onion becomes translucent.

4. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

5. Add diced ham to the skillet, stir to combine, and remove from heat.

6. In a large bowl, mix milk, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, salt, black pepper, and paprika.

7. Add cooked noodles and spinach-ham mixture to the bowl, stir until evenly coated.

8. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese.

9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

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