This Cheesy Ham & Broccoli Casserole is a warm hug on a plate! With tender broccoli, chunks of ham, and gooey cheese baked to perfection, it’s comfort food at its best.
Who doesn’t love a dish that’s cheesy and cozy? I can’t resist sneaking in extra ham when nobody’s watching. It also makes great leftovers—if there are any left, that is!
Making it is super simple. Just mix, bake, and enjoy! I love serving it with some crusty bread on the side—perfect for scooping up all that cheesy goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are excellent for this recipe, bringing a vibrant color and a crispy texture. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli works perfectly too. Just ensure it’s thawed and excess moisture drained.
Ham: Diced, cooked ham is great for flavor. If you want a lighter option or are vegetarian, consider using diced tofu or chickpeas instead. Another alternative could be turkey for a different twist!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you’re looking for something milder, go for medium cheddar or Monterey Jack. For a dairy-free option, vegan cheese shreds can be substituted as well.
Rice: White rice is a classic base, but you can also use brown rice for more fiber, quinoa for a nutty taste, or even cooked sweet potatoes for a sweet touch and a more colorful dish!
How Do I Make Sure the Eggs Set Perfectly in My Casserole?
Getting the eggs to set just right is crucial. To ensure fluffy and well-cooked eggs, whisk them thoroughly with the milk and seasonings until blended. This helps incorporate air, giving the casserole a light texture. Here’s how:
- Combine eggs and milk until you see no streaks.
- Don’t skip mixing the ingredients well in the baking dish! This step ensures even distribution of flavors.
- Bake until the edges are firm and the center is slightly jiggly. It will continue cooking after you take it out.
How to Make Cheesy Ham & Broccoli Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups diced ham (cooked)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked white rice (or substitute with cooked potatoes)
For The Egg Mixture:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll spend about 55-60 minutes from start to finish before enjoying a warm, cheesy casserole.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will get it nice and hot for when you put in your casserole.
2. Prepare the Casserole Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, diced ham, cooked rice (or potatoes), and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together well. Next, spread this mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, making sure it’s nicely distributed.
3. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until everything is blended and frothy. This will add a lovely creamy texture to your casserole.
4. Combine and Pour:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the mixture in the baking dish. Try to cover everything so that all the ingredients get that wonderful egg flavor!
5. Add the Cheesy Topping:
Now, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top. For an extra touch, you can also sprinkle some paprika if you’d like to add a bit of color.
6. Bake Your Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Let it bake for 35-40 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. You might want to take a peek around the 30-minute mark to make sure it’s cooking nicely!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, take the casserole out and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Cheesy Ham & Broccoli Casserole! Everyone will love it!
Can I Use Fresh Broccoli Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh broccoli, just make sure to cut it into small florets and lightly steam or blanch it for 2-3 minutes before mixing it with the other ingredients. This ensures that it will cook evenly in the casserole.
What Can I Substitute for the Eggs?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas per egg. For a healthier option, try 1/4 cup of silken tofu blended until smooth. Just keep in mind that these substitutes may slightly alter the texture of the casserole.
How to Store Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just ensure they are cooked or prepped so they won’t release too much moisture into the casserole while baking.
