Ham And Rice Casserole
Ham and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that combines savory diced ham with creamy mushroom soup and fluffy rice. It's a great choice for families looking for a quick, hearty meal that is both filling and delicious. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in an 8 x 8-inch pan.
- Bake at 375° for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese to the mixture before baking. You can substitute the diced ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor profile. If you like a bit of crunch, top the casserole with crushed crackers or fried onions before baking. This dish is also versatile; feel free to add vegetables like peas or corn to enhance its nutritional value.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Sweet Baked Beans for a comforting, hearty dinner. If you're looking for a more robust flavor, a dollop of barbecue sauce on top can elevate the dish. For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ham and rice casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Rice Casserole contains roughly 656 calories, with 17g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (36% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1231mg per serving (54% 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 brown rice instead of precooked rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require longer cooking time. If using uncooked brown rice, you should increase the baking time and add additional liquid to ensure it cooks through. Alternatively, you can cook the brown rice separately before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Bake directly from frozen, adding about 15-20 minutes to the cooking time. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use a homemade version by mixing equal parts of sour cream and milk with sautéed mushrooms, or substitute with cream of chicken soup for a different flavor. Alternatively, a white sauce made from butter, flour, and broth will also work well.
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).