When the holidays roll in and the air gets crisp, nothing beats gathering around the table with a warm, comforting dish. This Cozy Christmas Ham Casserole is the perfect way to turn leftover holiday ham into a creamy, cheesy, irresistible meal that everyone will want seconds of. Filled with tender pasta or potatoes, rich sauce, and savory ham, this casserole brings festive flavors and heartwarming nostalgia to every bite. It’s simple, satisfying, and ideal for busy holiday evenings.

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Ingredients

Casserole Base

2 cups diced leftover ham
2 cups cooked pasta or potatoes
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Creamy Sauce

4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk or cream (whole milk or cream recommended)
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend)

Seasoning and Extras

1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup fresh herbs (thyme or parsley), for garnish
Optional veggies: bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Assemble the Base: In a large bowl, combine the diced ham, cooked pasta or potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
Make the Roux: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat until foamy, then whisk in flour. Cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
Create the Sauce: Slowly pour in the milk or cream, whisking constantly until the sauce becomes smooth and thick.
Add Cheese & Mustard: Stir in shredded cheese and Dijon mustard until fully melted and creamy.
Season & Combine: Season with salt and pepper, then pour the sauce over the ham mixture. Mix gently to coat.
Bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
Rest & Garnish: Let cool for 5 minutes, then finish with fresh thyme or parsley.

Pro Tips

Use good-quality leftover ham for the best flavor and texture.
Whisk continuously when adding milk to avoid lumps in the sauce.
Choose sharp cheddar for extra flavor depth.
Add veggies like peas or bell peppers for color and nutrients.
Avoid overbaking to keep the casserole moist and creamy.

Why This Recipe Works

Perfect for leftovers: Ideal for repurposing holiday ham.
Ultra comforting: Creamy sauce + melted cheese = pure coziness.
Beginner-friendly: Simple steps and easy ingredients.
Customizable: Add veggies, herbs, or spices to suit your taste.
Crowd-pleasing: A dish the whole family will love at first bite.

Substitutions & Variations

Substitutions

Use gluten-free flour and pasta for a gluten-free version.
Swap milk for cream for extra richness.
Try smoked ham for a deeper flavor.

Variations

Veggie-Packed: Add broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms.
Spicy: Mix in jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
Herb-Infused: Use rosemary or sage for extra holiday aroma.
Cheesy Upgrade: Try gouda, mozzarella, or a cheese mix.
Sweet & Savory: Add dried cranberries or chopped apricots.

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Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make-Ahead

Prep the ham and sauce up to 24 hours in advance
Store separately in airtight containers
Combine and bake when ready

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
Add a splash of milk if the casserole feels too dry.

Serving Ideas

Pair this casserole with:

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Garlic bread
Roasted Brussels sprouts
A crisp green salad
Creamy coleslaw
Homemade applesauce
Sparkling water or festive drinks

It also makes a wonderful main dish for holiday gatherings.

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: 450
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 900mg
Potassium: 450mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Vitamin A: 500IU
Vitamin C: 2mg
Calcium: 300mg
Iron: 2mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my leftover ham is still safe to use?

It should smell fresh, feel firm, and be used within 3–4 days of cooking.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes! Freeze portions in secure containers for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat without drying it out?

Add a splash of milk before reheating to restore creaminess.

My sauce turned lumpy — what happened?

This occurs when flour isn’t cooked long enough or the milk is added too fast. Whisk vigorously and cook slowly.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk, butter alternatives, and dairy-free cheese.

This Cozy Christmas Ham Casserole is the perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and holiday warmth. Whether you’re using up leftovers or planning a simple winter dinner, this dish brings nostalgic charm and creamy satisfaction every time. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s sure to become a holiday favorite for years to come.