Ham And Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Ham: Diced cooked ham adds a savory and salty flavor to the casserole.

Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli florets provide a healthy and crunchy element to the dish.

Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese melts into the casserole, adding a rich and creamy texture.

Cream of mushroom soup: This canned soup creates a creamy base for the casserole.

Milk: Milk helps to thin out the soup and blend the ingredients together.

Bread crumbs: Bread crumbs mixed with melted butter create a crispy topping for the casserole.

Butter: Melted butter is combined with bread crumbs to add richness and a golden brown finish.

When preparing the broccoli florets, blanch them in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes before adding them to the casserole mixture. This will help retain their vibrant green color and ensure they are tender by the time the casserole is fully baked.

• cooked ham - Substitute with cooked turkey: Turkey provides a similar texture and protein content, making it a great alternative for those who prefer poultry.

• cooked ham - Substitute with cooked chicken: Chicken is a versatile meat that pairs well with broccoli and cheese, offering a milder flavor.

• broccoli florets - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower has a similar texture and can be used as a low-carb alternative.

• broccoli florets - Substitute with green beans: Green beans provide a different texture but still offer a nutritious and green vegetable option.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with Swiss cheese: Swiss cheese adds a slightly nutty flavor and melts smoothly.

• cream of mushroom soup - Substitute with cream of chicken soup: Cream of chicken soup offers a similar creamy texture and flavor profile.

• cream of mushroom soup - Substitute with cream of celery soup: Cream of celery provides a different but complementary flavor while maintaining the creamy consistency.

• milk - Substitute with heavy cream: Heavy cream adds richness and a thicker consistency to the casserole.

• milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well for those with lactose intolerance.

• bread crumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes provide a crunchy topping and are gluten-free.

• bread crumbs - Substitute with panko bread crumbs: Panko offers a lighter, crispier texture compared to regular bread crumbs.

• butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat option and adds a subtle flavor.

• butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter.

• Allow the ham and broccoli casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container. If you prefer, you can also cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• Store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
• For freezing, portion the casserole into individual servings. This makes it easier to reheat only what you need.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label each package with the date and contents. The casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even reheating and maintains the texture.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes to crisp up the bread crumb topping.
• Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover ham and broccoli casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it is heated through and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the bread crumb topping.

• Microwave Method: Transfer a portion of the casserole to a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, then stir. Continue heating in 1-minute intervals until the casserole is thoroughly warmed. Be cautious as the cheddar cheese can get very hot.

• Stovetop Method: Place the leftover casserole in a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or cream of mushroom soup to keep it moist. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an air fryer-safe dish. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't burn. This method will help maintain the crispiness of the bread crumb topping.

• Slow Cooker Method: Transfer the leftover casserole to your slow cooker. Set it on low heat and cover. Heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the casserole is warmed through. This method is great for keeping the casserole moist and flavorful without drying it out.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining the ham, broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and milk.

• Baking dish: The vessel in which the casserole mixture is poured and baked.

• Small bowl: Used to mix the bread crumbs with the melted butter.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the ham, broccoli, cheddar cheese, milk, and bread crumbs.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the 2 tablespoons of melted butter.

• Knife: For dicing the cooked ham into small pieces.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for dicing the ham.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for mixing the casserole ingredients together in the large mixing bowl.

• Spatula: Useful for spreading the casserole mixture evenly in the baking dish.

• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when placing the baking dish in the oven and removing it once the casserole is done.

• Cheese grater: If you need to shred the cheddar cheese yourself.

• Whisk: Helps to mix the milk and cream of mushroom soup smoothly.

Pre-cook the broccoli: Steam or microwave the broccoli florets ahead of time to reduce baking time.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to save time on grating.

Buy diced ham: Purchase pre-diced ham to skip the chopping step.

Mix in the baking dish: Combine all ingredients directly in the baking dish to avoid extra dishes.

Prepare in advance: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate, then bake when ready.