Broccoli-Ham Dish
A hearty baked casserole combining broccoli, ham, and rice topped with crispy bread crumbs and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli; drain.
- Spoon rice into a 13 x 9-inch pan or casserole dish.
- Place cooked broccoli over the rice.
- Melt butter; pour 2 tablespoons over bread crumbs and set aside.
- In remaining butter, sauté chopped onion until soft.
- Add flour and salt; cook until bubbly.
- Stir in milk and cook until thickened.
- Add diced ham and heat through.
- Pour the ham and sauce mixture over rice and broccoli.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs over the top.
- Bake until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the milk mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute the butter with olive oil and use whole grain bread crumbs. Fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen; just blanch it before adding to the dish. This recipe can also be made with leftover ham from Cherry-Glazed Baked Ham for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone but pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting touch, serve with warm, crusty bread. It can also be enjoyed as a filling side dish at gatherings or potlucks, complementing other American recipes like Methodist Meat Loaf or Hearty Potato-Ham Chowder.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Ham Dish contains roughly 2016 calories, with 39g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 149g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (131% of the Daily Value), calcium (82% of the Daily Value), and protein (78% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 844mg per serving (37% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Just blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green, then drain and follow the recipe as directed. Fresh broccoli adds a nice crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, omit the ham and substitute it with sautéed mushrooms or cooked lentils for added protein. You can also use vegetable broth instead of milk to create a flavorful base for the sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).