Ham And Rice Chantilly
Ham And Rice Chantilly combines tender diced ham, fluffy rice, and green peas in a creamy, cheesy casserole. Topped with whipped cream and melted cheddar, it offers a rich, comforting flavor perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. A savory dish with a delightful blend of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Use a 2-quart greased casserole dish. Combine diced ham, cooked rice, green peas, 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Spoon into the casserole dish.
- Add the remaining cheese to the whipped heavy cream and mix well.
- Spread the cheesy whipped cream mixture over the rice and ham mixture in the casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of sour cream to the whipped heavy cream mixture. If you're out of Cheddar cheese, you can substitute it with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. Feel free to enhance the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for additional freshness. For a lighter version, swap half of the heavy cream with low-fat Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ham And Rice Chantilly with a side of Cauliflower Lettuce Salad for a refreshing contrast. It also pairs well with New Potatoes or Southwest Green Beans to create a well-rounded meal. For a heartier spread, consider serving it alongside Deviled Ham Dip as an appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving is also an option; just cover it to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Rice Chantilly contains roughly 686 calories, with 21g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (298% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (176% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (128% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1581mg per serving (69% 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 uncooked rice instead of cooked in this recipe?
Using uncooked rice is not recommended, as it could lead to uneven cooking and a less desirable texture. The rice needs to be pre-cooked to ensure it blends well with the other ingredients and absorbs flavors effectively.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the diced ham with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables. You can also use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based options to enhance the flavor without losing the essence of the dish.
Can I freeze Ham And Rice Chantilly?
Yes, you can freeze Ham And Rice Chantilly. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
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).