Ham And Cheese Casserole
Ham and cheese casserole offers a comforting blend of savory ham, creamy milk, and tender vegetables, all baked to perfection with a crispy top. This hearty dish is ideal for family dinners or potlucks, combining rich flavors and satisfying textures that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onions and celery in butter in a large skillet until soft.
- Remove from heat and stir in beaten eggs, cracker crumbs, milk, pepper, and chopped ham.
- Line a baking dish with heavy-duty foil.
- Grease the foil generously.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes or until brown and firm in the center.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like thyme or parsley into the mixture. You can substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different twist. If you're looking for a lighter version, use low-fat milk and whole grain cracker crumbs. Make sure to whisk the eggs thoroughly for a fluffy texture, similar to what you'd find in a Batter Bread Recipe.
Serving Suggestions
This ham and cheese casserole makes a hearty breakfast or brunch dish. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Fresh Corn Soup as a light starter. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. You can also bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed throughout, ensuring a nice texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 2964 calories, with 15g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 273g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), protein (30% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1138mg 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pour it into the baking dish before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating an even tastier dish when baked.
What can I use instead of cracker crumbs?
If you don’t have cracker crumbs, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitute. Alternatively, for a gluten-free option, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour to maintain texture while accommodating dietary needs.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it is brown on top and firm in the center. You can insert a knife in the middle; if it comes out clean, the dish is ready. Be sure not to overbake it to keep it moist and tender.
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).