Multiple Choice Ham Casserole
A hearty ham casserole featuring tender cauliflower or broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and crispy bread crumb topping, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop cauliflower and/or broccoli into flowerets or bite-sized pieces.
- Steam cauliflower and/or broccoli until tender.
- Place cauliflower and/or broccoli in a lightly greased 2-quart casserole; sprinkle with chopped, cooked ham.
- Melt 1/4 cup butter in a heavy saucepan.
- Blend in flour and cook until bubbly.
- Add cheese, stirring until melted.
- Spoon sauce over the ham and vegetables.
- Combine bread crumbs and remaining butter; spoon over the sauce.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of your favorite hot sauce or some garlic powder for extra flavor. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked ham or even rotisserie chicken as a substitute. For a healthier option, try substituting half of the cheese with a lower-fat version or using whole wheat flour to make the roux.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside a vegetable dish like roasted asparagus or steamed green beans to balance the richness. For a heartier option, try serving with a slice of Heart Healthy Cornbread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out, then remove for the last few minutes to crisp the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Multiple Choice Ham Casserole contains roughly 934 calories, with 21g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (54% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 730mg 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 frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cauliflower or broccoli can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the casserole to avoid excess moisture. This can save prep time and still yield a delicious dish.
What can I substitute for the Cheddar cheese?
You can swap Cheddar for any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well to maintain the creamy sauce texture.
Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you're ready to cook it.
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).