Ham, Broccoli And Cheese Casserole
A comforting casserole combining tender broccoli, savory ham, and melted cheese, all baked to perfection. This dish offers a creamy, cheesy flavor with hints of Worcestershire and onions, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for family dinners or potlucks. Easily adaptable with turkey or chicken instead of ham.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli for 3 to 5 minutes and drain.
- Combine cooked broccoli, diced ham, Minute rice, cream of chicken soup, milk, Cheez Whiz, butter, Worcestershire sauce, and minced onions in a large bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9 x 11-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, stirring once or twice during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra half cup of milk or a dollop of sour cream. You can substitute the Cheez Whiz with shredded cheddar for a more traditional flavor. If you want to add more vegetables, diced bell peppers or sliced mushrooms work well too. Make sure to drain the broccoli thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs nicely with a simple side salad or garlic bread to balance the richness. For a comforting dinner, consider serving it alongside 'Wind Between The Houses' Casserole for a delightful variety. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
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. For larger portions, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham, Broccoli And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 566 calories, with 11g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2189mg per serving (95% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Just steam it slightly before adding it to the casserole to ensure it cooks through during baking. Fresh broccoli will have a crisper texture, which can add a nice contrast to the creamy filling.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you're looking for a substitute for cream of chicken soup, you can use homemade cream sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. Alternatively, using a mixture of sour cream and chicken broth can also work well in this recipe.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through thoroughly.
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).