Country Kitchen Casserole
A hearty casserole combining ham, potatoes, peas, and cheese in a savory mushroom sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine mushroom soup, water, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Cheddar cheese, sliced potatoes, cooked and drained peas or lima beans, and diced ham in a bowl.
- Spoon the mixture into a 2-quart baking dish.
- Bake at 400°F for 25 to 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the mixture before baking. If you don't have Cheddar cheese, try substituting with Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor profile. You can also incorporate veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition. For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and add more beans or mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to serve as a main dish, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread. For an added touch, serve it alongside Ellen Brown's Broccoli Salad for a balanced meal. It also works well with a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Kitchen Casserole contains roughly 957 calories, with 34g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (68% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (68% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1048mg per serving (46% 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 potatoes instead of sliced potatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes, but be sure to slice them thinly and par-cook them for about 5-10 minutes in boiling water before adding them to the casserole. This ensures they are tender by the time the casserole is done baking.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free and use a gluten-free cream soup or make a homemade version. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish easily adaptable.
Can I freeze the Country Kitchen Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
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).