Vegetable And Ham Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole combining tender potatoes, carrots, onions, and savory ham, all topped with a creamy celery soup sauce and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners, this dish offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture, making it an ideal choice for a cozy, wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes, onion, carrots, and chopped cooked ham in a 2-quart baking dish.
- Combine the undiluted cream of celery soup, milk, and a dash of pepper to make the sauce.
- Pour half of the sauce over the layered vegetables and ham.
- Add the remaining vegetables and ham as the next layer.
- Top with the remaining sauce.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese between layers. You can substitute the ham with cooked chicken or for a vegetarian version, use mushrooms and additional vegetables. Using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor profile. If you prefer, you can also make this dish with a different condensed soup, such as cream of mushroom.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Cherry Cobbler Ice Cream for dessert. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside warm bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. A light vinaigrette on the side can also complement the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave until heated through, or cover the casserole with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until warmed thoroughly. This dish can also be frozen for later use.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetable And Ham Casserole contains roughly 508 calories, with 12g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (77% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 559mg per serving (24% 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 prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What type of cheese works best for topping?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for this casserole, but you can also use Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or a blend of cheeses for extra richness. Make sure to sprinkle it on during the last 10 minutes of baking for a perfectly melted and bubbly topping.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables will add great flavor and texture. Just make sure to slice them thinly to ensure they cook through during baking. You can also lightly sauté them beforehand to enhance their sweetness and reduce moisture in the casserole.
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).