Apple-Ham-Cheese Casserole And Black Beans Pepper Relish
A comforting casserole combining tender ham, sweet apples, and melted cheese, topped with a flaky, spiced biscuit-like crust. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a delightful blend of savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the cubed cooked ham in a casserole dish.
- Mix sliced apples, lemon juice, 1 tablespoon sugar, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, and curry. Spread this mixture over the ham.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, and 1/3 cup sugar.
- Cut in oleo (butter or margarine) with a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gently mix in the cheese.
- Spread the flour mixture evenly over the apple and ham layer.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes to brown the top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter flavor, consider using honey or maple syrup instead of sugar. You can substitute the ham with turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more apples or nuts. The nutmeg and cinnamon add warmth, but feel free to adjust them to your taste. This casserole pairs beautifully with Southern Cream Cookies for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole can be served as a hearty breakfast or a comforting dinner. Pair it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A side of cornbread complements the flavors nicely. For a delightful brunch option, serve it alongside Miniature Cupcakes to satisfy sweet cravings or offer it during holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. It can also be frozen for up to a month; just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple-Ham-Cheese Casserole And Black Beans Pepper Relish contains roughly 81 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1165mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While the recipe doesn't specify a particular cheese, feel free to use cheddar, mozzarella, or even a creamy brie for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well to create a creamy texture.
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
For the best results, use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination will give your casserole a nice balance of flavors. Avoid overly mealy apples like Red Delicious, as they can change the texture.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the refrigerator and bake it when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).