For the Casserole Base:

• Cooked Ham: 2 cups, diced. Ham is the star protein of this casserole, providing a savory and slightly salty counterpoint to the sweetness of the pineapple. You can use leftover holiday ham, deli ham cut into cubes, or even pre-cooked ham steaks diced up. For the best flavor, choose a good quality ham. Smoked ham works particularly well, adding depth and richness to the dish. Consider the cut of ham as well; a slightly fattier ham will render down beautifully and add moisture to the casserole, while leaner ham will still be delicious but might benefit from a touch more of the creamy sauce to prevent dryness. Dicing the ham into uniform pieces ensures even cooking and distribution throughout the casserole.
• Pineapple Chunks: 2 cups, canned, drained. Pineapple is the quintessential sweet element in this casserole, offering a tropical tang and juicy sweetness that perfectly complements the ham. Canned pineapple chunks are incredibly convenient and readily available. Make sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to prevent the casserole from becoming watery. You can use pineapple packed in juice or light syrup; if using syrup, be mindful of the overall sweetness of the casserole and adjust any added sugar accordingly. Some prefer to use fresh pineapple, which is certainly an option; however, canned pineapple is often preferred in casseroles for its softer texture and consistent sweetness. If using fresh pineapple, ensure it is ripe and juicy, and you may want to lightly sauté it to soften it slightly before adding it to the casserole.
• Egg Noodles: 8 ounces, uncooked. Egg noodles provide a hearty and comforting base for the casserole, absorbing the flavorful sauce and creating a satisfying texture. Wide egg noodles are typically preferred for casseroles as they hold their shape well and provide a substantial bite. You can use regular or enriched egg noodles. It’s important to cook the egg noodles according to package directions until they are al dente, meaning slightly firm to the bite. Overcooked noodles will become mushy in the casserole. Undercooking them slightly is better as they will continue to cook in the oven with the sauce. Rinsing the cooked noodles is not necessary for this casserole; a little starch on the noodles will help the sauce cling to them.
• Cream of Celery Soup: 1 (10.75 ounce) can. Cream of celery soup forms the creamy and savory base of the sauce, binding all the ingredients together and adding a comforting richness. It provides a smooth texture and a subtle celery flavor that complements both the ham and pineapple. While cream of celery is traditional, you can also experiment with cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup for slightly different flavor profiles, although cream of celery is often considered the classic and best choice for this particular casserole. Using the condensed soup directly from the can provides convenience and a concentrated flavor base.
• Milk: ½ cup. Milk thins out the cream of celery soup, creating a smoother and more pourable sauce consistency that evenly coats all the ingredients in the casserole. You can use whole milk, 2% milk, or even evaporated milk for a richer sauce. Non-dairy milk alternatives like almond milk or oat milk can also be used, though they may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the sauce. Adjust the amount of milk depending on your desired sauce consistency; you may need a little more or less depending on the brand of cream of celery soup and your personal preference.
• Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded. Cheddar cheese provides a sharp and savory cheesy element that melts beautifully and adds a golden crust to the top of the casserole. Sharp cheddar is often preferred for its bold flavor that stands up well against the sweetness of the pineapple and the savory ham. You can use pre-shredded cheddar cheese for convenience, or shred your own cheese for potentially better melting and flavor. Other cheeses that could be used, though less traditional, include Monterey Jack, mozzarella (for a milder flavor and stretchier texture), or a blend of cheeses. Reserve some of the shredded cheese for topping the casserole before baking to create that irresistible cheesy crust.

Optional Ingredients (for customization and added flavor):

• Onion: ¼ cup, finely diced. Diced onion adds a subtle savory note and aromatic depth to the casserole. Sautéing the onion lightly before adding it to the casserole can mellow its flavor and enhance its sweetness. Yellow or white onion works well.
• Green Bell Pepper: ¼ cup, finely diced. Diced green bell pepper provides a touch of freshness, a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness, and a bit of color to the casserole. You can also use red or yellow bell pepper for a sweeter flavor and different color.
• Bread Crumbs: ½ cup, panko or regular. Bread crumbs, especially panko bread crumbs, can be sprinkled on top of the casserole before baking to create a crispy and golden-brown topping. Tossing the bread crumbs with a little melted butter or olive oil enhances their crispiness and flavor.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted (if using bread crumbs). Melted butter adds richness and flavor to bread crumb topping and helps them brown and crisp up in the oven.
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon. Worcestershire sauce adds a depth of umami flavor to the sauce, enhancing the savory notes and complexity of the casserole. Just a small amount can make a noticeable difference.
• Dry Mustard: ½ teaspoon. Dry mustard powder adds a subtle tangy and slightly spicy note to the sauce, complementing the ham and cheese flavors.
• Pineapple Juice: ¼ cup (reserved from canned pineapple). Instead of discarding all the pineapple juice, reserving a little to add to the sauce can intensify the pineapple flavor and add extra moisture. Use sparingly to avoid making the casserole too watery.
• Brown Sugar: 1-2 tablespoons. For those who prefer a sweeter casserole, a touch of brown sugar can enhance the caramelized sweetness of the pineapple and create a richer flavor profile. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.