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Penne Sausage and Ham Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

There’s something magical about a bubbling casserole, especially one that smells like savory sausage and melted cheese. For me, this Penne Sausage and Ham Casserole instantly transports me back to my childhood, to the cozy warmth of my grandmother’s kitchen on a chilly autumn evening. I can almost feel the steam rising from the dish as she placed it on the table, its golden-brown topping beckoning us all to dig in. This wasn’t just a meal; it was a symbol of love, family, and the simple joys of shared time.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Broil Time: 2-3 minutes
Total Time: 47-48 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

1 lb Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage, sliced
4 ounces Hillshire Farm Ham, cubed
2 cups Milk
2 tablespoons All-purpose Flour
8 ounces uncooked Penne Pasta, cooked and drained
2 1/2 cups shredded Mozzarella Cheese
1/3 cup grated Parmesan Cheese
1 (16 ounce) jar prepared Pasta Sauce (e.g., marinara, tomato)
1/3 cup Breadcrumbs

Equipment Needed

Large Skillet
Small Casserole Dish (approximately 9×13 inches)
Colander
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Oven

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the casserole cooks evenly.
In a large skillet over medium heat, lightly brown the smoked sausage slices and the cubed ham. This step is crucial for developing the savory flavors of the dish. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning. The sausage and ham should release some of their natural fats, which will enhance the overall flavor profile.
Once the sausage and ham are lightly browned, stir in the milk and all-purpose flour. This creates a simple béchamel-like sauce that will bind the casserole together. Continue stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Bring the mixture to a boil, still stirring constantly. As the sauce heats, it will thicken slightly. Ensure the flour is fully incorporated to avoid a grainy texture.
Now, reduce the heat to low and stir in the cooked and drained penne pasta. Make sure the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. Then stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a creamy and decadent base for the casserole. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the mozzarella to sprinkle on top later.
Pour the sausage and pasta mixture into a small casserole dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish.
Pour the prepared pasta sauce over the top of the sausage mixture. Use a spoon to gently spread the sauce so that it covers the entire surface evenly. This layer of pasta sauce adds a tangy sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the meat and cheese. Sprinkle the reserved mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta sauce.
Bake, covered, in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Covering the casserole during baking helps to prevent the top from drying out and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
After 25 minutes, uncover the casserole and sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top. The breadcrumbs will create a delightful golden-brown crust.
Finally, place the uncovered casserole under the broiler to brown the topping. Keep a close eye on it, as it can burn quickly. This usually takes just 2-3 minutes, but oven temperatures can vary. The goal is to achieve a beautifully browned and crispy breadcrumb topping.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Spice It Up: For an added kick, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sausage and ham mixture while browning. You could also use spicy Italian sausage instead of regular smoked sausage.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a touch of cheddar would be delicious additions or substitutions.
Make-Ahead Option: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Vegetable Boost: Add some chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the skillet along with the sausage and ham for a more nutritious and flavorful casserole. Sauté them until softened before adding the milk and flour.
Breadcrumb Enhancement: Toast the breadcrumbs in a dry skillet with a little melted butter or olive oil before sprinkling them on top for extra flavor and crunch. Consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumbs as well.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Penne Sausage and Ham Casserole hot, straight from the oven, for the best taste and texture. A simple green salad or some garlic bread would make a wonderful accompaniment. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze individual portions for longer storage (up to 2-3 months). Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (estimated)	% Daily Value (estimated)
Calories	650 kcal	33%
Total Fat	35g	54%
Saturated Fat	18g	90%
Cholesterol	85mg	28%
Sodium	1685mg	70%
Total Carbohydrate	40g	13%
Dietary Fiber	3.5g	14%
Sugars	5.5g	N/A
Protein	30g	60%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Lower Fat: Substitute the regular sausage and ham with leaner versions, such as turkey sausage and reduced-fat ham. Use 1% or skim milk instead of whole milk, and reduced-fat cheese.
Vegetarian: Replace the sausage and ham with plant-based alternatives like vegetarian sausage crumbles or marinated tofu cubes. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicy sausage for extra heat.
Creamy: Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce for an even richer and creamier casserole.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can substitute penne pasta with other short pasta shapes like rotini, farfalle (bowties), or elbow macaroni. Just be sure to cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.

Q: Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?
A: While you can adapt it, the texture may be different. Cook the sausage and ham, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and broil in the oven briefly to brown the topping.

Q: How do I prevent the breadcrumbs from burning under the broiler?
A: Keep a close eye on the casserole while it’s under the broiler. Broil for just a few minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy. You can also tent the casserole with foil if the breadcrumbs are browning too quickly.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
A: Absolutely! Sauté some chopped vegetables like onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini along with the sausage and ham for a more nutritious and flavorful casserole.

Q: What kind of pasta sauce should I use?
A: You can use any prepared pasta sauce you like, such as marinara, tomato, or even a creamy Alfredo sauce. Choose a sauce that complements the flavors of the sausage and ham.

Final Thoughts

This Penne Sausage and Ham Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering. The combination of savory sausage, salty ham, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta is simply irresistible. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create a casserole that suits your taste. And don’t forget to share your creations and feedback with me – I’d love to hear how it turns out! Pair this comforting casserole with a crisp, refreshing salad and a glass of your favorite wine for a truly satisfying meal. Happy cooking!

Penne Sausage and Ham Casserole Recipe