Ham Casserole with Broccoli and Rice

This comforting Ham Casserole with Broccoli and Rice is a hearty and delicious dish, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. With creamy cheese, tender rice, and savory ham, it’s a complete meal baked to perfection.

Ingredients

Casserole:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 1/4 cups white long-grain rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 10.75 oz cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• Salt and pepper, to taste (optional)

Ritz Cracker Topping:

• 1 cup Ritz Crackers, crushed into crumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish and set aside.
2. Refer to your rice package for specific liquid and cooking time recommendations. If preferred, cook the rice separately and skip the broth in this recipe. You’ll need 3 3/4 cups of cooked rice.

Cook the Rice:

1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 5 minutes, until softened.
2. Stir in the chicken broth, olive oil, and uncooked rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover tightly and cook for 8 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli to the pot, replace the cover, and cook for an additional 7 minutes. Avoid stirring.
4. Check for doneness: if the liquid remains and the rice isn’t fully cooked, cover and simmer for up to 5 more minutes. Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 10 minutes to release any rice stuck to the bottom.

Assemble the Casserole:

1. Stir in the diced ham, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and half of the cheddar cheese until well combined.
2. Spread the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.

Bake:

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
2. Combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Remove the foil, sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the casserole, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
3. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food at Its Best: A creamy, cheesy dish loaded with savory ham and tender broccoli.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with the option to prepare everything in one pot.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
• Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals.

Tips

• Cook the Rice Properly: Follow your rice package instructions if in doubt. Letting the rice sit covered after cooking ensures fluffiness and easy cleanup.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli florets provide the best texture and flavor. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain well before adding.
• Cheese Choice: For the best melting texture, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese rather than pre-shredded.
• Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Swap ham for cooked chicken, turkey, or crumbled bacon.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Rice Alternatives: Substitute white rice with brown rice, but adjust cooking time and liquid accordingly.
• Topping Options: Replace Ritz crackers with panko breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips for a crunchy topping.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different soup?
Yes, cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup works well as substitutes for cream of chicken.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, assemble the casserole without the Ritz topping and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the topping, and bake as directed.

Serving

This Ham Casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. It’s also hearty enough to enjoy on its own.

Suggestions

• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
• Pair with a glass of white wine or a light sparkling water for a refreshing contrast.
• Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.