Ham & Veggie Casserole: A Hearty, Comforting Meal for Any Occasion

Introduction

When you’re in the mood for a meal that’s hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor, look no further than a Ham & Veggie Casserole. This dish brings together savory chunks of ham, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy sauce all baked to golden perfection. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover ham, but it’s also delicious enough to serve as the centerpiece of a family dinner.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight meal, a holiday feast, or even a potluck, this casserole offers the kind of wholesome, satisfying comfort that everyone loves. It’s versatile, customizable, and can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, even for those who are new to the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can make a meal that everyone will rave about.

This Ham & Veggie Casserole is one of those dishes that has been passed down through generations, making it a timeless favorite in many households. The creamy sauce, paired with tender vegetables and savory ham, creates a comforting meal that’s as delicious as it is filling. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more veggies into your diet!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Quick to Prepare

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. With a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, it comes together quickly for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just getting started, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any skill level.

Great for Leftovers

Do you have leftover ham from a holiday meal? This casserole is an excellent way to use it up without letting it go to waste. It’s the perfect dish for transforming leftovers into a brand-new, delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

Packed with Flavor

The combination of savory ham, a variety of vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy sauce creates a flavor profile that’s irresistible. The vegetables, like carrots, peas, and green beans, add freshness and color, while the ham adds richness and depth.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best things about this casserole is how easily it can be tailored to your tastes. You can swap in different vegetables, change the type of cheese, or even add extra seasonings to suit your family’s preferences. You can make this dish your own every time you cook it!

Perfect for Meal Prep

This casserole stores well in the refrigerator for several days, making it a great option for meal prepping. You can make it in advance, store it in an airtight container, and then simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can prepare it ahead of time and have a delicious, homemade meal ready to go for busy days.

Preparation Time and Servings

Total Time: 1 hour (20 minutes prep, 40 minutes baking)
Servings: 6-8
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Calories: 320
Protein: 18g
Carbs: 24g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 7g

Ingredients

This Ham & Veggie Casserole uses basic, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Casserole:

• 3 cups cooked ham, cubed: This is the heart of the casserole, providing flavor and protein. You can use leftover ham or deli ham if that’s what you have on hand.
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, corn, and green beans): A convenient and nutritious mix of vegetables that add color and texture to the dish.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds savory flavor to the casserole base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides an aromatic backdrop that complements the vegetables and ham.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and adds richness to the casserole.
• 1 cup sour cream: Creates a creamy base for the casserole, adding both texture and flavor.
• 1/2 cup milk: Helps thin the sauce and makes the casserole more creamy.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, creating a flavorful base for the casserole.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a herby note that enhances the flavor of the vegetables and ham.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning.

For the Topping:

• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers: Adds a buttery, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter: Used to bind the crackers together and give them a golden, crispy texture.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty note to the topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

STEP 1: PREHEAT THE OVEN AND PREPARE THE BAKING DISH

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and ensure an easy cleanup.

STEP 2: COOK THE ONIONS AND GARLIC

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.

STEP 3: MAKE THE CASSEROLE SAUCE

In the same skillet, add the sour cream, milk, and dried thyme to the onions and garlic. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

STEP 4: COMBINE THE CASSEROLE INGREDIENTS

Add the cubed cooked ham and frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet, stirring until everything is well combined. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, just to ensure that the vegetables are heated through.

Once everything is well-mixed, remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the mixture to the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish.

STEP 5: ADD THE CHEESE

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will melt into the sauce and create a deliciously cheesy layer when baked.

STEP 6: PREPARE THE CRACKER TOPPING

In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine until the crackers are evenly coated with butter and the cheese is well-distributed.

Evenly sprinkle the cracker mixture over the top of the casserole. This will create a crispy, golden topping that adds great texture and flavor to the dish.

STEP 7: BAKE

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crispy.

STEP 8: LET IT REST AND SERVE

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to slice.

How to Serve

Ham & Veggie Casserole is a full meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas for serving:

• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.
• Roasted Potatoes: For a heartier meal, roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes make a great addition.
• Sautéed Greens: Sautéed spinach or green beans are a great way to add more veggies to the meal.

Additional Tips

1. Use Leftover Ham: This casserole is a great way to use up leftover ham from holiday meals. Simply cube the ham into bite-sized pieces and add it to the casserole. You can also freeze leftover ham and use it for this dish later.
2. Vegetable Variations: While frozen mixed vegetables work great for this recipe, feel free to use fresh vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can even add some roasted sweet potatoes for extra flavor.
3. Make It Spicy: If you prefer a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or some diced jalapeños to the casserole for a kick.
4. Dairy-Free Option: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, you can substitute the cheese, sour cream, and milk with plant-based alternatives such as dairy-free cheese and coconut milk.
5. Freezing and Storing: This casserole stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days. To freeze, assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Recipe Variations

• Cheese Swap: While cheddar is a classic choice for this casserole, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or gouda for a different flavor.
• Add More Protein: If you’d like to add even more protein, you can stir in some cooked chicken, turkey, or bacon.
• Vegan Version: For a vegan take on this casserole, use plant-based ham, dairy-free cheese, and coconut cream in place of the regular ingredients.

Conclusion

Ham & Veggie Casserole is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings together all the comfort and flavor you crave in one pan. Whether you’re making it with leftovers or starting fresh, it’s a dish that’s sure to please your family and friends. Its creamy texture, savory ham, and colorful vegetables make it the perfect comfort food that can be enjoyed year-round.

With the option to customize it to suit your tastes, it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to for its versatility and deliciousness. Enjoy making this casserole as part of your next family dinner or holiday meal, and share it with those you love. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table for a satisfying meal that everyone will appreciate!

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