Savory Ham And Rice
A hearty savory rice dish with ham and vegetables, perfect for family dinners. Rich flavors from cream of celery soup and aromatic sage make it comforting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped carrots, onions, green pepper, and water in a pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Stir in cream of celery soup, instant rice, cooked ham, sage, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with paprika on top.
- Bake, covered, at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or substituting the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of ham for a different protein. If you prefer, brown rice can be used instead of instant rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
This savory ham and rice dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or some crusty bread. For a heartier option, consider complementing it with a side of Cheesy Bacon Stuffed Potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover to retain moisture, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Savory Ham And Rice contains roughly 525 calories, with 9g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (116% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 618mg 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 brown rice instead of instant rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the water to approximately 1 1/2 cups and increase the baking time to ensure the rice is fully cooked and tender.
What can I substitute for cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can use cream of mushroom or make a homemade version using a roux with sautéed celery, onions, and heavy cream. This will give you a similar creamy texture with a different flavor profile.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Ensure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake or microwave until heated through.
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).