Quick Ham Broccoli Casserole
A quick and cheesy ham and broccoli casserole featuring tender vegetables, savory ham, and creamy sauce, perfect for a comforting weeknight family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and broccoli in butter in a large skillet until the onion is tender.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in cream of chicken soup, chopped ham, cooked rice, process cheese spread, and milk.
- Spoon mixture into a lightly greased 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes or until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using garlic powder or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs while sautéing the onion and broccoli. If you don't have process cheese spread, cream cheese or shredded cheddar can work as a substitute. For a lighter version, swap out the cream of chicken soup with a homemade white sauce or a low-fat alternative. This casserole can be customized with other vegetables like peas or mushrooms for a nutritious twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Quick Ham Broccoli Casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up the creamy goodness. For a more substantial dinner, complement it with roasted potatoes or a vegetable medley. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or as a comforting weeknight dinner, similar to classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal; just cover them to retain moisture and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking for doneness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Ham Broccoli Casserole contains roughly 631 calories, with 9g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (36% of the Daily Value), iron (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 644mg per serving (28% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli; just blanch it briefly in boiling water before adding it to the sauté. This will ensure it cooks properly in the casserole. Fresh broccoli can add a vibrant color and slightly different texture to the dish.
What can I substitute for the ham?
If you're looking for a substitute for ham, cooked chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian options like tofu or chickpeas can work well. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to complement the substitute you choose.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking directly from the fridge.
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).