Ham N' Cheddar Casserole
A hearty ham and cheddar casserole featuring rice, mixed vegetables, mushrooms, and a cheesy sauce, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare rice according to package instructions.
- Prepare mixed vegetables according to package directions, omitting margarine and salt.
- In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and onion in butter until tender.
- Mix nacho cheese soup and milk together.
- Stir the soup mixture into the skillet with mushrooms and onions.
- Add cooked ham and prepared vegetables to the skillet.
- Simmer until thoroughly heated.
- Serve over warm rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the soup mixture. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute the nacho cheese soup with a homemade cheese sauce using cheddar and milk. You can also swap out the ham for cooked chicken or turkey for a different protein. Adding spices like garlic powder or paprika can enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole can be served as a hearty main dish. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For added flavor, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before serving or garnish with fresh herbs. You might also enjoy it alongside Homestyle Cabbage for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated completely.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham N' Cheddar Casserole contains roughly 636 calories, with 9g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (83% of the Daily Value), iron (23% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 467mg per serving (20% 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 casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
What types of vegetables can I use in this recipe?
You can use a variety of vegetables based on your preference. Bell peppers, peas, or broccoli work well. Just ensure they are thawed and chopped into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Can I freeze the ham n' cheddar casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
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).