Ukrainian Ham and Noodle Bake
Experience the rich flavors of Eastern Europe with this delightful Ukrainian Ham and Noodle Bake, a comforting casserole that combines tender egg noodles, savory ground ham, and creamy cheese into a harmonious dish. Perfect for family gatherings or as a cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole brings warmth and nostalgia to your table. Easy to prepare, this recipe can be made in advance and heated up for busy days, making it a great addition to any meal plan. Enjoy a slice of Ukrainian culture with every bite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
egg noodles
1 1/2 cups (uncooked)
butter
1 tablespoon (melted)
ground ham
3/4 cup (cooked and ground)
grated cheese
1/4 cup (or more, to taste)
egg
1 (slightly beaten)
light cream
1/4 cup (none)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
buttered bread crumb
1/4 cup (buttered)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained noodles with melted butter, ensuring each noodle is coated evenly.
4
Stir in the ground ham and grated cheese until they are well distributed throughout the noodle mixture.
5
In another bowl, whisk together the slightly beaten egg, light cream, and salt. If the ham is particularly salty, adjust or omit the added salt to taste.
6
Pour the egg mixture into the noodle, ham, and cheese blend, mixing until everything is evenly combined.
7
Transfer the entire mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the top with buttered bread crumbs for a crispy finish.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
9
Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty Ukrainian Ham and Noodle Bake!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ukrainian Ham and Noodle Bake?
It is a comforting Eastern European casserole that combines tender egg noodles, savory ground ham, and creamy cheese into a hearty dish.
What type of noodles are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of uncooked egg noodles.
How should the noodles be prepared?
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente, then drain them.
What kind of ham should I use?
You should use 3/4 cup of cooked and ground ham.
Can I use leftover ham for this dish?
Yes, leftover cooked ham is perfect for grinding and using in this casserole.
What type of cheese is recommended?
The recipe specifies grated cheese; you can use any variety you prefer, such as cheddar or Swiss.
How much cheese is required?
Use 1/4 cup of grated cheese, or more depending on your personal taste.
What is the purpose of the egg in the mixture?
One slightly beaten egg is used to help bind the noodles, ham, and cream together.
Can I substitute the light cream?
While light cream provides a rich texture, you could use heavy cream or whole milk as a substitute.
How much salt should I add?
The recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon of salt, but you should adjust or omit it if your ham is already very salty.
At what temperature should the oven be set?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long does the Ukrainian Ham and Noodle Bake take to bake?
It should bake for approximately 45 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
What is used for the topping?
The top is sprinkled with 1/4 cup of buttered bread crumbs for a crispy finish.
Why should I coat the noodles in butter first?
Mixing the noodles with melted butter ensures they are evenly coated and prevents them from sticking together.
Can this dish be made in advance?
Yes, this recipe can be prepared ahead of time and heated up later, making it great for meal planning.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for family meals and busy weeknights.
What size baking dish should I use?
A standard greased baking dish that can accommodate approximately 3 to 4 cups of volume is appropriate.
What does 'al dente' mean for the noodles?
Al dente means the noodles are cooked to be firm to the bite, not mushy.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
While not in the original recipe, you can add peas or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
How do I store the leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze Ukrainian Ham and Noodle Bake?
Yes, you can freeze it, though the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing.
How should I reheat the casserole?
Reheat portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild flavors of noodles, ham, and cheese make it a favorite for children.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Absolutely, you can double all the ingredients and use a larger baking pan.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty rye bread.
Should the bread crumbs be seasoned?
The recipe calls for buttered bread crumbs; you can use plain or seasoned ones depending on your preference.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, transferring the mixture into a greased baking dish prevents sticking.
How do I know when the bake is finished?
The casserole is done when it is bubbly and the bread crumb topping has turned golden brown.
Can I use different types of pasta?
While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute with rotini or elbow macaroni if needed.
Is this a traditional Ukrainian recipe?
It is a dish inspired by the flavors and comfort food traditions of Ukrainian and Eastern European cuisine.