Broccoli, Ham And Cheese Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender broccoli, savory ham, and cheesy topping with crispy bread crumbs, perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli in boiling unsalted water for 5 minutes, then drain.
- In a small pan, melt Cheez Whiz with milk until smooth.
- Place cooked broccoli in a baking dish.
- Add chunks of ham on top of the broccoli.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the broccoli and ham.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake at 350°F until bread crumbs are browned, about 15-20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the melted Cheez Whiz. If you want to boost the veggie content, try adding some diced bell peppers or sautéed onions. For a gluten-free option, substitute the bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or panko. This dish pairs well with the comforting flavors found in Home-Style Meat Loaf.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a hearty main dish, making it perfect for a family dinner. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with American recipes like Ribs or Po Boys, adding a comforting element to any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium heat, but be cautious not to overcook, as it may dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli, Ham And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 337 calories, with 10g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 596mg per serving (26% 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 other types of cheese instead of Cheez Whiz?
Yes, you can substitute Cheez Whiz with shredded cheddar or a cheese sauce for a different flavor. Just melt it with a bit of milk to get a similar creamy texture. Keep in mind that the taste will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to adjust the baking time as it may require a few extra minutes to heat through when baked straight from the fridge.
What can I add to make this dish more filling?
To make this casserole heartier, consider adding cooked rice or quinoa to the mix. This not only adds substance but also enhances the nutritional value. You can also incorporate other proteins like shredded chicken or cooked sausage for extra flavor.
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).