Harlequin Ham Casserole
A hearty ham casserole with rice, colorful bell peppers, and a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking savory, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice, salt, and water until rice is done.
- Make a cream sauce by combining flour, margarine, milk, mayonnaise, and Parmesan cheese.
- Mix all ingredients together, including cooked rice, ham, bell pepper, water chestnuts, and the cream sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 30 to 45 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk to the cream sauce. If you're out of Parmesan cheese, a blend of cheddar and mozzarella can work well as a substitute. To enhance flavor, try adding some garlic powder or onion powder to the mixture. This casserole pairs nicely with a side of Parmesan Mashed Potatoes for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Harlequin Ham Casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish can be complemented with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a festive touch, pair it with Hot Ham Dip as an appetizer to kick off your gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Harlequin Ham Casserole contains roughly 988 calories, with 13g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (139% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2077mg per serving (90% 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 white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. Adjust the water and cooking duration according to the package instructions to ensure the rice is fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the ham with cooked mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables like zucchini and spinach. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the rice to enhance the flavor.
Can I freeze the Harlequin Ham Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep!
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).