Zucchini Ham Casserole
A comforting casserole combining tender zucchini, savory ham, and cheesy flavors, topped with crispy bread crumbs—perfect for family dinners and versatile in any season.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sliced zucchini, chopped onion, and celery in a large skillet and sauté for 5 minutes.
- Add 1 cup sour cream, Cheddar cheese soup, chopped green chilies, and cubed ham to the skillet and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish.
- Top with 1/2 cup buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using olive oil instead of regular oil, and feel free to substitute the cubed ham with leftover cooked chicken or turkey. You can also add grated cheese on top for a cheesy crust. If you're looking for a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. This dish can also be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Zucchini Ham Casserole alongside a fresh garden salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Corn Bread Salad for a delightful contrast in flavors. You can also add a side of roasted vegetables for extra nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Individual portions can be microwaved for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Ham Casserole contains roughly 612 calories, with 5g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value), potassium (10% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 665mg per serving (29% 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 zucchini for this recipe?
While fresh zucchini is preferred for its texture, you can use frozen zucchini. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet to avoid a watery casserole.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and add more vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also include a plant-based protein like chickpeas or lentils for added substance.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold 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).