There’s something wonderfully comforting about a bubbling casserole coming out of the oven. Just the thought of my Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole brings back memories of cozy family dinners, where everyone gathered around the table, eager to dig into a warm, hearty meal. On days when life feels a bit overwhelming, this dish steps in as a cheerful reminder to slow down and savor the moment.
What I love most about this recipe is its unbeatable simplicity—you can whip it up in just 30 minutes! With tender chunks of ham, vibrant peas, and gooey cheddar cheese enveloped in a creamy sauce, it’s a delightful way to reinvent leftovers or just escape the monotony of takeout. Perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers, this casserole is not only delicious but a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll wonder how you ever got by without this comforting classic in your meal rotation. Let’s get started!
Why You'll Love This Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole
- This Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole is a breeze to make, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal in just 30 minutes.
- Its rich and creamy flavor, combined with the savory ham and fresh peas, creates an irresistible taste that will leave everyone craving more.
- The versatility of this dish means you can easily adapt it with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand.
- Not only is it visually appealing with its golden, bubbly top, but it's also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will make every meal feel special.
Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
- Cooked ham – diced for a savory, protein-packed base that adds flavor.
- Frozen peas – bright and sweet, they provide a pop of color and nutrition.
- Cooked pasta (or rice) – use any pasta shape or even rice; both will absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
For the Sauce
- Butter – adds richness to the sauce, making it silky and smooth.
- All-purpose flour – acts as a thickener for the sauce, ensuring a creamy texture in your cheesy ham and pea casserole.
- Milk – gives the sauce a lovely creaminess; you can substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Cheddar cheese – shredded for maximum meltiness, it brings that gooey, cheesy goodness everyone loves.
Embrace the comforting essence of this dish with these simple ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a delightful homemade experience!
How to Make Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole
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Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbly, add the flour, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color. This creates a flavorful base for your sauce.
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Whisk in the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. You'll be rewarded with a creamy consistency!
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Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s all melted and gooey. This is where your casserole gets its cheesy heart!
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the diced ham, frozen peas, and cooked pasta (or rice) into the sauce. Mix everything gently, ensuring all ingredients are well-coated in that luscious cheesy goodness!
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Transfer to Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly and enjoy the vibrant colors peeking through the creaminess!
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Bake: Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden. Your kitchen will be filled with an inviting aroma!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this beloved dish and make it uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and use gluten-free pasta for a delicious, safe option.
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Veggie Lover: Add in diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor. It’s a fantastic way to boost nutrition and taste!
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Spicy Twist: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little kick that perfectly balances the creamy cheese.
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Bacon Infusion: Swap out ham for crispy bacon to introduce a smoky crunch that brightens up your casserole.
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Herb Burst: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into your sauce for a delightful freshness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Cheese Variety: Try using a mix of gouda or mozzarella alongside cheddar for a unique combination of cheesiness and melt-in-your-mouth goodness!
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Creamy Additions: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese for an even richer sauce that coats every bite.
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Veggie-Heavy: Load it up with more veggies like spinach or zucchini for a healthier twist and a beautiful splash of color!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole components are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the sauce and combine it with the ham, peas, and pasta up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture and flavor. When you're ready to bake, transfer it to a greased dish, cover it with foil, and pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes (add a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge). You'll enjoy a warm, delicious casserole that tastes just as delightful as if it was made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the flavors and texture of your cheesy ham and pea casserole.
Freezer: Freeze the casserole in a well-sealed container or wrap it tightly in foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals!
Room Temperature: Let the casserole cool completely before leaving it out at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
What to Serve with Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole?
When comfort calls for a full meal, it's all about the perfect accompaniments to elevate your dining experience.
- Garlic Bread: A warm, crunchy side to soak up every bit of cheesy sauce; perfect for any casserole lover!
- Simple Garden Salad: Crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers bring a fresh, vibrant contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots and broccoli add depth and a wholesome touch to your plate, balancing the flavors beautifully.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy dressing create a lovely balance with the savory, creamy casserole.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls to mop up all that cheesy goodness—because no one should miss a crumb!
- Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and slight crispness pair surprisingly well with the savory elements of the dish.
Each of these sides enhances your meal experience, ensuring that your dinner table is a delightful place for everyone to gather and enjoy!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole, ensure your butter is fully melted before adding the flour to avoid lumps in your sauce.
- Gradually whisk in the milk to prevent curdling; this will help achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Keep your oven preheated at 350°F and check for doneness around the 15-minute mark to prevent over-baking.
- If you want extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder to the sauce for a savory boost.
Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ham for this casserole?
Absolutely! When choosing ham, look for something that is not overly processed. A good quality cooked ham or even leftover holiday ham works beautifully. Choose a piece that is moist, not overly salty, and sliced or diced as you prefer. If there are dark spots or an off odor, it's best to avoid that piece.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of the Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes to reheat. This ensures that the flavors stay intact and the casserole remains nice and creamy!
Can I freeze my Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole?
Very! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to a well-sealed container or cover tightly with foil or freezer wrap. This keeps it fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven for about 25-30 minutes at 350°F until warmed through.
What should I do if my cheese sauce turns lumpy?
I recommend whisking the flour into the melted butter for a smooth roux before adding the milk. If lumps form, continue to whisk vigorously as you add the milk. If it’s already lumped, you can try blending the sauce with an immersion blender until smooth. Always remember to add the milk gradually and whisk continuously to help prevent lumps.
Is this dish safe for people with dietary restrictions?
Of course! This Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole can be adjusted for various dietary needs. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using almond or oat milk and a dairy-free cheese substitute. If someone has gluten intolerance, use a gluten-free flour for the sauce and ensure your pasta rice is gluten-free. Just check the labels to keep the dish safe for everyone.
Can pets eat the Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole?
Not really! While ham in moderation can be safe for pets, the casserole contains ingredients like cheese and butter that may upset their stomachs. I suggest keeping this comfort food just for your family and providing your furry friends with their specific pet treats instead.
Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbly, add the flour, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s all melted and gooey.
- Stir in the diced ham, frozen peas, and cooked pasta (or rice) into the sauce. Mix everything gently, ensuring all ingredients are well-coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.
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