Spring Ham Bake
A comforting spring ham bake featuring tender ham, rice, creamy asparagus soup, and crispy corn flakes topping, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked cubed ham, cooked rice, grated American cheese, evaporated milk, cream of asparagus soup, and finely chopped onion in a 1 1/2-quart or 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Mix crushed corn flakes with melted butter or margarine, then sprinkle on top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, add some frozen peas or diced bell peppers to enhance the flavor and texture. If you don't have American cheese, cheddar works well as a substitute. To boost the dish further, consider using leftover grilled vegetables from your dinner or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs. This Spring Ham Bake is a great way to use up leftovers, just like in many American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Spring Ham Bake is delicious served alongside a fresh Spinach Salad(10 Servings) or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor. Pairing it with a light white wine can also enhance the dining experience, making it a delightful option for gatherings.
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 (175°C) for about 15-20 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 Spring Ham Bake contains roughly 755 calories, with 12g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (42% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 920mg per serving (40% 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 raw ham instead of cooked ham?
Using raw ham is not recommended as it would require longer cooking times to ensure it's safe to eat. This recipe is designed for cooked cubed ham, which adds flavor and texture without needing extended cooking. If you have leftover cooked ham, this dish is perfect for utilizing it.
What can I substitute for cream of asparagus soup?
If you don't have cream of asparagus soup, you can use cream of mushroom soup or even a homemade white sauce as an alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still create a creamy texture that binds the casserole together.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this Spring Ham Bake ahead of time. Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if it's coming straight 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).