Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner into a creamy, cheesy comfort food extravaganza that will have your family begging for seconds! This Creamy Shells Ham Casserole is the ultimate one-dish wonder that combines the rich, savory flavors of ham, gooey cheddar cheese, and tender pasta shells into a mouthwatering meal that's both easy to prepare and impossible to resist. Whether you're looking for a quick family dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food sensation!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups diced ham
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and frozen peas. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the pasta shells are cool enough to handle, carefully fill each shell with the ham and cheese mixture. Use a spoon to pack the filling into each shell, ensuring they are generously filled.
- Spread a thin layer of the remaining ham and cheese mixture on the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. This will prevent the shells from sticking.
- Arrange the filled pasta shells in a single layer in the baking dish. If there is any remaining filling, you can spoon it over the top of the shells.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking. This will help the shells heat through without drying out.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the dish to set slightly and make it easier to serve.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your creamy shells ham casserole!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Use jumbo pasta shells to ensure you can generously stuff each shell with the delicious ham and cheese mixture.
- Don't Overcook the Pasta: Cook the shells just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your ingredients sit out for a few minutes before mixing to ensure even blending and consistent texture.
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to add diced onions, bell peppers, or swap out ham for chicken for variety.
- Cheese Tip: For extra flavor, mix different types of cheese like sharp cheddar and mild mozzarella.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Prevent Drying: The aluminum foil cover is crucial to keep the casserole moist and prevent the edges from burning.
- Garnish Creatively: Top with fresh parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of extra cheese just before serving for a restaurant-quality presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 215kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
