Ham & Veggie Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Ham & Veggie Casserole is a comforting and easy dish that combines nutritious broccoli and cauliflower with savory ham and creamy cheese sauce. Ready in just about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick family dinner packed with flavor.

A square white ceramic baking dish with blue rim filled with a baked casserole. The top layer is golden brown crunchy breadcrumbs scattered unevenly with some browned spots. Underneath, there are chunky white cauliflower florets and bright green broccoli pieces mixed with pink ham cubes. A creamy melted cheese sauce coats the vegetables and ham, visible in yellow and white hues. A silver spoon rests inside the dish, partially submerged in the casserole. The dish sits on a light wooden board over a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 1 package (16 ounces) frozen broccoli florets
  • 1 package (16 ounces) frozen cauliflower
  • 2 teaspoons plus 2 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 1/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1-1/2 cups 2% milk
  • 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1-1/2 cups cubed fully cooked ham (about 8 ounces)
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Cook the broccoli and cauliflower according to the package directions, then drain well.
  2. Step 2: In a small skillet, melt 2 teaspoons of butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned bread crumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until they are lightly toasted, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In a large saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook until smooth, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, then bring the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  4. Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan until melted and combined. Add the cubed ham, pepper, and cooked vegetables, stirring gently to incorporate everything evenly.
  5. Step 5: Transfer the mixture to a greased 8-inch square baking dish. Sprinkle the toasted bread crumbs evenly over the top.
  6. Step 6: Bake the casserole uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the topping is golden brown.

Tips & Variations

  • For a richer flavor, use whole milk or add a splash of cream to the cheese sauce.
  • Swap out the ham for cooked chicken or turkey for a different protein option.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of warmth.
  • Mix in other veggies like carrots or peas to boost nutrition and color.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through or place the whole casserole back in a 350°F oven until heated, about 15-20 minutes.

How to Serve

A white square baking dish filled with a baked casserole sits on a wooden board with a white marbled texture underneath. The casserole has three main layers visible: the bottom layer is a mix of green broccoli florets and white cauliflower pieces, the middle layer shows pale pink diced ham chunks mixed with melted light yellow cheese, and the top layer is a thick, golden brown breadcrumb crust that is crispy and unevenly spread, covering parts of the vegetables and ham. A metal spoon with a wooden handle rests inside the dish, slightly scooping a portion. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh broccoli and cauliflower can be used. Simply steam or boil them until tender before adding to the casserole.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Print
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Ham & Veggie Casserole Recipe


  • Author: Naomi
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This hearty Ham & Veggie Casserole combines tender broccoli and cauliflower with savory cooked ham, all enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with toasted breadcrumbs. It’s a comforting, quick-to-prepare oven-baked dish perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.


Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 package (16 ounces) frozen broccoli florets
  • 1 package (16 ounces) frozen cauliflower

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 teaspoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 11/2 cups 2% milk
  • 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Additional Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs
  • 11/2 cups cubed fully cooked ham (about 8 ounces)
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Cook the frozen broccoli florets and cauliflower according to the package instructions, then drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
  2. Toast the Breadcrumbs: In a small skillet, melt 2 teaspoons of butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned bread crumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until they become lightly toasted and golden, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour until you form a smooth paste. Gradually whisk in the 2% milk, continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until it thickens, which usually takes 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat, then stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until fully blended.
  4. Combine Ham and Vegetables: Add the cubed fully cooked ham, pepper, cooked broccoli, and cauliflower to the cheese sauce. Gently stir everything together to evenly coat the ingredients with the sauce.
  5. Assemble and Bake the Casserole: Transfer the ham and vegetable mixture into a greased 8-inch square baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the top. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the topping is crisp and golden.

Notes

  • You can substitute fresh broccoli and cauliflower; just steam until tender before use.
  • For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cheese and milk.
  • Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
  • Seasoned bread crumbs add extra flavor, but plain can be used with a pinch of salt and herbs.
  • Ensure the ham is fully cooked to avoid any food safety issues.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: ham casserole, broccoli casserole, cheese sauce, baked casserole, easy dinner, comfort food

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