Minnesota Wild Rice And Ham Casserole
A hearty casserole combining wild rice, ham, broccoli, and cheesy goodness, perfect for comforting family dinners or potluck gatherings with rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the wild rice according to the package directions.
- Spread the cooked rice in the bottom of a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Cook and drain the frozen chopped broccoli.
- Layer the broccoli on top of the rice.
- Sprinkle the cooked, cubed ham over the broccoli.
- Cover the ham with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- In a bowl, combine the cream of celery soup, mayonnaise, and prepared mustard.
- Spread the soup mixture over the casserole.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes or until golden in color.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using leftover turkey instead of ham, or adding sautéed onions and garlic for depth. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter option. If you prefer, use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of celery for a different taste. Be sure to rinse the wild rice before cooking to remove any excess starch.
Serving Suggestions
This Minnesota Wild Rice and Ham Casserole makes a hearty main dish, so pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It can also be served alongside crusty bread or biscuits, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner. For extra indulgence, consider serving with Chicken Sauce For Hot Biscuits.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes 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 Minnesota Wild Rice And Ham Casserole contains roughly 418 calories, with 12g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 611mg per serving (27% 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 other types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor. Just keep in mind that the melting characteristics may vary.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If you do this, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to cook, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. It can be frozen for up to three months.
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).