Broccoli, Ham and Cheese Casserole

Broccoli, Ham and Cheese Casserole is one of those comfort food recipes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly night. Seriously, there’s something magical about digging into a creamy, cheesy dish filled with tender broccoli and savory chunks of ham. It’s perfect for a simple family dinner or a laid-back gathering with friends. Plus, it’s a delightful way to make use of leftover ham, turning what could have been a wasted ingredient into a star of the table.

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The beauty of this casserole lies not just in its flavors, but also in its simplicity. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. So, gather your loved ones, and let’s whip up this heartwarming Broccoli, Ham and Cheese Casserole together. It’s a recipe that’s bound to become a regular feature on your dinner table!

Why This Recipe Works

This Broccoli, Ham, and Cheese Casserole is the ultimate combination of comforting flavors and nutritional goodness, making it a beloved choice in many households. The marriage of fresh veggies with savory ham and gooey cheese results in a dish that is hearty and satisfying. Moreover, using pantry staples like cream of chicken soup and rice guarantees something that’s easy to whip up any night of the week. The richness of cheddar cheese takes this casserole to a whole new level, enhancing every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli, Ham and Cheese Casserole

You’ll want to go back for seconds with this casserole! It’s not just a dish; it’s a versatile, one-pot meal that works perfectly for weeknight dinners or larger gatherings. The creamy, cheesy consistency sets the stage against the crunchy broccoli and tender ham, making it absolutely irresistible. Plus, it’s perfect for utilizing leftover ham, transforming potential waste into a scrumptious family meal.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 ear sweet corn, kernels removed
• 2 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed and chopped
• 4 oz deli ham, diced (or leftover ham)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon ground thyme
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken stock or water
• 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparing the Broccoli, Ham and Cheese Casserole

Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole cooks evenly. Next, lightly grease a 9×9 square baking dish or choose a larger one if you’re making a bigger batch. Set it aside for later.

Sauté the Veggies

Now let’s move on to the veggies! In a large skillet set to medium heat, pour in the avocado oil and butter. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, toss in the diced onion, carrot, and corn. Sauté these for about 5-7 minutes, or until the veggies begin to soften up. As you cook, sprinkle in some salt, black pepper, and ground thyme—this will add a punch of flavor to your mixture.

Combine Ingredients

Alright, once those vegetables are looking good, it’s time to combine the ingredients. Stir in your lightly steamed and chopped broccoli, diced ham, and the can of cream of chicken soup. You’ll want to blend everything together until the soup mingles beautifully with the veggies. After that, add in the rice and chicken stock, mixing thoroughly to eliminate any lumps.

Add the Cheese

Now for the part we all love: cheese! Fold in the freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese. As you mix, watch it melt into the warm mixture, making it creamier and even more delectable.

Assemble the Casserole

Pour the entire skillet mixture into your prepared baking dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to keep all that goodness in, and it’s ready to go in the oven.

Bake for Perfection

Bake your casserole for about 40 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and you see no excess liquid remaining. This is when the aroma fills your kitchen and makes everyone’s stomachs start to rumble.

Garnish and Serve

After the timer goes off, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes—this helps it set up a bit. Before serving, don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for that lovely color and fresh flavor!

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some warm garlic bread. For those who like a little zing, serve it alongside a tangy mustard or a splash of hot sauce!

Tips for Success

• Make sure your broccoli is only lightly cooked before adding it to the casserole. This helps maintain that perfect texture.
• Freshly shred your cheese; it makes a difference! Pre-packaged varieties often contain additives that make melting more challenging.
• Give your casserole some time to sit after baking; this helps firm it up for easier serving.

Variations

Feel like switching things up? Here are a couple of variations:
– Swap out the ham for cooked chicken or turkey if you prefer.
– Add in other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for a pop of color and extra nutrients.
– Experiment with different cheeses, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a flavor twist.

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave. A splash of chicken stock while reheating will maintain that moist texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. Just remember to bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes if it’s still cold.

2. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, definitely! Just skip the ham and substitute the cream of chicken soup with a vegetarian version.

3. Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can stay good for up to 2 months.

4. What can I serve with this casserole?
A fresh side salad or roasted vegetables complement this dish nicely. Crusty bread pairs well too, enhancing the overall meal experience.

5. How do I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven. If using the oven, cover it with foil to keep it from drying out, and heat at 350°F until warmed through.

This Broccoli, Ham and Cheese Casserole is not just another recipe; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and enjoy cozy moments. With its delightful flavors and simple preparation, it’s easy to see why this casserole will become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite!

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