Healthy Ham and Cheese Casserole with Apples and Sage
Try this Healthy Ham and Cheese Casserole with Apples and Sage recipe
Try this Healthy Ham and Cheese Casserole with Apples and Sage recipe
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion chopped
- 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup half and half
- 1/2 cup plain non-fat greek yogurt
- 1 pound whole wheat penne
- 12 ounces diced ham (i used thickly sliced virginia ham from
- 3 medium sweet apples cored and cut into 1/2-inch dice (i used gala)
- 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh sage leaves thinly sliced, dived
- 3 teaspoons garlic
- 2 1/2 cups non-fat milk
- 1 cup freshly grated sharp white cheddar cheese
- for the bread crumb topping:
- Carbohydrate 371.745327404182 g
- Cholesterol 478.682430137846 mg
- Fat 84.1602635606108 g
- Fiber 5.97840003730922 g
- Protein 89.5297216693504 g
- Saturated Fat 36.5558826732907 g
- Serving Size 1 1 9x13-inch dish (1728g)
- Sodium 1457.94663213225 mg
- Sugar 365.766927366873 g
- Trans Fat 8.14438762749656 g
- Calories 2610 calories
Step-by-step
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta to the water and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F, and lightly grease a 9x13 or similar baking dish.
- Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or similar large, deep pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until beginning to soften, about 6 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the flour and garlic, then cook whisking often, until the flour is golden brown, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly, then the half and half. Continue to cook until the sauce simmers and thickens, about 7 minutes.
- Remove from heat, then stir in the salt and nutmeg, then the Greek yogurt, cheddar, and 1/2 the total amount of sage.
- Add the drained pasta, apples and ham, toss gently to coat, then transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Combine the bread crumbs and olive oil in a small bowl and sprinkle over the top of the pasta.
- Cover the dish with foil, then bake for 10 minutes covered, then uncover and bake 10 additional minutes, until the crumbs are golden and the pasta is hot and bubbly.
- If necessary, turn your broiler to high to finishing browning the crumbs, watching them carefully so that they do not burn.
- Remove baked pasta from the oven, sprinkle with remaining sage, and serve.
A Busy Mom's Deliciously Healthy Ham and Cheese Casserole
Between school runs, work deadlines, and keeping the house running smoothly, finding time to cook a healthy and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. But I'm here to tell you it doesn't have to be! This Ham and Cheese Casserole isn't just a quick and easy weeknight dinner, it's packed with flavor and nutrients that will keep your family energized throughout the day. I've been perfecting this recipe for years, adapting it to suit my ever-changing schedule and my kids’ ever-evolving tastes. The result? A comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that's both delicious and healthy enough to feel good about serving.
The secret lies in the balance of ingredients. The hearty whole wheat penne pasta provides a solid base, while the diced ham adds a savory protein punch. Sweet apples and fragrant sage introduce a delightful unexpected twist, breaking up the richness of the cheese and creating a surprisingly harmonious flavor profile. I use non-fat Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese to boost the protein and reduce the fat content, making it a guilt-free indulgence. And the panko breadcrumb topping? Pure perfection! It adds a delightful crunch and a beautiful golden brown finish to the casserole. This recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn't have to be boring or time-consuming. It can be delicious, satisfying, and most importantly, manageable, even for the busiest of moms.
Why this recipe works for busy families:
- One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup! A busy mom's dream.
- Make-ahead friendly: Assemble the casserole in the morning and bake it later.
- Versatile: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences and what you have on hand. Use different types of ham, cheese, or apples.
- Healthy and satisfying: Packed with protein and whole grains, keeping everyone full and energized.
- Crowd-pleaser: This casserole is a hit with everyone, kids and adults alike.
Tips and variations:
- Leftovers are a treat! This casserole tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Add some veggies! Throw in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Spice it up! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Customize the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, like Gruyere or Monterey Jack.
- Use different herbs: Rosemary or thyme would also be delicious in this casserole.
This Ham and Cheese Casserole isn't just a meal; it's a testament to the fact that healthy and delicious can coexist. It's a recipe born from the heart of a busy mom, dedicated to providing her family with nourishment without sacrificing flavor or convenience. So go ahead, give it a try, and I promise you won't be disappointed. You might even find yourself adding it to your family's regular rotation – a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious meal that everyone will love.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this casserole hot, straight from the oven. A side salad or some steamed green beans would make a perfect accompaniment. Enjoy!
