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
- 1–1/2 cups 2% milk
- 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Additional Ingredients
- 1/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 1–1/2 cups cubed fully cooked ham (about 8 ounces)
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
