Ham-Cheese Delight
A savory baked ham and cheese casserole with tender onions, perfect for family dinners or entertaining, offering rich flavors and a comforting texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook finely chopped onion in butter until tender.
- Add finely chopped ham, slightly beaten eggs, shredded cheese, cracker crumbs, milk, and dash of pepper.
- Mix well.
- Pour mixture into a 10 x 6 x 1 1/2-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes or until a knife inserted comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you don't have cheese on hand, any type of shredded cheese will work, but cheddar complements the ham best. You can also substitute the cracker crumbs with breadcrumbs or crushed pretzels for added flavor. Make sure not to overmix the ingredients to keep the dish light and airy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ham-Cheese Delight warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a delightful brunch option, consider serving it alongside the Cheddar Cheese And Spinach Quiche to create a varied spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 best results, you can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed and slightly crispy on top.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham-Cheese Delight contains roughly 540 calories, with 11g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 732mg per serving (32% 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 leftover ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! This is a great way to use up leftover ham. Just make sure it's chopped finely to ensure even cooking and distribution throughout the dish.
What type of cheese works best in this dish?
While any shredded cheese can be used, cheddar cheese is highly recommended for its flavor and melting qualities. You can also mix in some mozzarella for a gooey texture.
Can this dish be made 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 and bake it fresh before serving for the best texture.
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).