Ham And Broccoli Royale
A comforting casserole combining tender rice, fresh broccoli, savory ham, and melted American cheese, all baked to perfection. This dish offers a creamy, cheesy flavor with a hint of onion and a crispy breadcrumb topping, making it ideal for family dinners or potlucks that satisfy all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the rice according to the package directions and spoon into a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Cook the broccoli following the package directions, drain, and place in a single layer over the rice in the baking dish.
- In a skillet, melt margarine or butter, then cook chopped onions until tender.
- Stir in flour, salt, and pepper; cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add cubed ham and shredded American cheese, stirring until cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli layer in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle with bread crumbs.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a little heavy cream or sour cream to the cheese sauce. You can also replace the white American cheese with cheddar for a sharper flavor. To save time, use pre-cooked rice or frozen broccoli. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially if you enjoy a bit more spice, which can enhance the overall flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ham And Broccoli Royale as a hearty main dish, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad, such as Mushroom Bacon Salad, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a complete spread, consider serving with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious cheese sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Broccoli Royale contains roughly 1188 calories, with 32g protein, 211g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (138% of the Daily Value), iron (87% of the Daily Value), and protein (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2569mg per serving (112% 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 cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the white American cheese with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that melting properties may vary, so choose a cheese that melts well for the best results.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the ham and replace it with vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas for protein. For a richer flavor, consider using vegetable broth instead of milk and a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it creamy.
How do I make this dish ahead of time?
To prepare ahead, assemble the dish without baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, uncover and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.
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).