Ham Broccoli and Rice Casserole
Try this Ham Broccoli and Rice Casserole recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Ham Broccoli and Rice Casserole recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 3 cups milk
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 5 tablespoons butter divided
- 1 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 10 oz chopped broccoli fresh or frozen (about 4 cups)
- 4 cups cooked long-grain white or brown rice
- 6 oz cooked ham (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs (or any bread crumbs)
- Carbohydrate 11.1387419291993 g
- Cholesterol 28.0644531407838 mg
- Fat 10.2495925434842 g
- Fiber 0.931928677691914 g
- Protein 3.97705906315138 g
- Saturated Fat 6.2476081322617 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -10 (160g)
- Sodium 98.7867272092908 mg
- Sugar 10.2068132515073 g
- Trans Fat 0.943666813020744 g
- Calories 148 calories
Step-by-step
- If you are using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain off water first.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons butter. Add flour and whisk into a smooth paste.
- Cook paste for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Slowly whisk in milk until smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce to simmer and continue to whisk for another two minutes or until the mixture thickens.
- Remove saucepan from heat and stir in cheese, salt and pepper until smooth.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ham, broccoli, rice and cheese until well combined.
- Add additional salt and pepper to taste, if needed.
- Transfer to a greased casserole dish.
- Melt 1 tablespoon butter and mix well with the panko breadcrumbs.
- Sprinkle buttered crumbs over casserole evenly and bake for 20-30 minutes, until mixture is bubbly and topping is browned.
- Enjoy!
Ham Broccoli and Rice Casserole: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, easy, and, most importantly, delicious. That's why I've become a master of the one-pan wonder, and this Ham Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a shining example. It's a hearty, comforting meal that's surprisingly simple to put together, even on a hectic weeknight. The creamy cheese sauce, tender broccoli, savory ham, and crunchy breadcrumb topping make it a family favorite, and the leftovers are just as good the next day – a huge bonus for busy households!
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap out the ham for leftover chicken or turkey for a different flavor profile. If you're not a fan of broccoli, cauliflower or peas would make a great substitute. I often adjust the spices to match what I have on hand – sometimes adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth of flavor. The best part is, the entire dish comes together in one pan, minimizing cleanup – another win in my book! The creamy cheese sauce is the star of the show, providing a comforting richness that perfectly balances the savory ham and the slightly bitter broccoli. The panko breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch that elevates the whole casserole to another level. It’s the kind of dish that always feels like a warm hug after a long day, and it never fails to please both my kids and my husband.
Beyond the Dinner Table: This casserole is perfect for meal prepping. I often make a double batch on the weekend, portion it out into individual containers, and freeze it for those nights when I'm truly short on time. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven. It also makes a fantastic dish for potlucks or gatherings; it's always a crowd-pleaser. And let's be honest, having a delicious, home-cooked meal ready to go always makes me feel a little more accomplished and organized. It's the little victories that keep me going, and this casserole is definitely one of them!
Tips and Tricks:
- Use good quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Don't overcook the broccoli, or it will become mushy.
- If you're using fresh broccoli, make sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheddar and Gruyere cheese.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and color before baking.
This Ham Broccoli and Rice Casserole isn't just a meal; it’s a shortcut to a happy, well-fed family. It’s a testament to the fact that delicious, comforting food doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. It's a perfect example of how even the busiest of us can create delicious, satisfying meals that everyone will love.
So, next time you're short on time but craving something hearty and flavorful, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed. It's the kind of recipe that will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation, a dependable friend in the whirlwind of everyday life.
