Ham And Broccoli Bake
A comforting ham and broccoli casserole with cheesy, creamy flavors, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, combining pasta, savory ham, and fresh broccoli.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cooked elbow macaroni, chopped onion, ham, seasoning salt, and mayonnaise in a large bowl until well combined.
- Ensure the mixture has a slightly liquid consistency but not too runny.
- Add frozen broccoli and half of the grated Cheddar cheese to the mixture and toss to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the mixture. If you don't have mayonnaise, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute. You can also use fresh broccoli instead of frozen, just steam it lightly before adding. For extra flavor, try incorporating garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce into the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Ham and Broccoli Bake alongside a fresh Cauliflower Spinach Salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with crusty bread or a side of roasted vegetables. For a heartier option, enjoy it with City Chicken Legs or a light soup to round out the dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If using the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out, and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Broccoli Bake contains roughly 375 calories, with 16g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 698mg per serving (30% 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 a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini. Just make sure to cook it al dente to avoid mushiness during baking.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You might also consider adding some cooked lentils for protein and texture.
Can I freeze the Ham and Broccoli Bake?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake until heated through.
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).