Fresh Florida Green Beans 'N Ham
A comforting casserole combining tender green beans, savory ham, and cheesy goodness, topped with buttery bread crumbs—perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Cook green beans in boiling salted water until crisp-tender, about 10 minutes; drain.
- Combine drained green beans, diced cooked ham, and condensed cheese soup in a bowl.
- Place the mixture in a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Melt butter and pour over bread cubes; toss gently to coat.
- Sprinkle bread cubes over the casserole.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some garlic or onions before mixing with the green beans and ham. You can substitute the condensed cheese soup with a homemade cheese sauce for a fresher taste. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables, making it a delicious vegetarian recipe.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Deluxe Baked Potatoes for a hearty dinner. For a festive touch, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving, which will enhance the flavors and presentation of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Florida Green Beans 'N Ham contains roughly 607 calories, with 2g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (64% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1128mg per serving (49% 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 frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before mixing with the other ingredients. This will help maintain the right texture and prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps the casserole heat through properly.
What can I use instead of cheese soup?
If you prefer not to use condensed cheese soup, consider making a homemade cheese sauce using milk, butter, and shredded cheese. This will give a fresher taste and allow you to control the flavors and consistency to suit your preferences.
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).