Ham and Cheese Casserole
This recipe is adapted from a Taste of Home recipe, but with significant modifications. The original called for excessive onion and green pepper, which have been reduced. Green peppers were replaced with red peppers, and a cracker topping was added instead of bread. The dish is described as a grown-up mac and cheese, with vegetables and meat replacing the pasta. It's also easily adaptable with other vegetable and meat combinations.
This recipe is adapted from a Taste of Home recipe, but with significant modifications. The original called for excessive onion and green pepper, which have been reduced. Green peppers were replaced with red peppers, and a cracker topping was added instead of bread. The dish is described as a grown-up mac and cheese, with vegetables and meat replacing the pasta. It's also easily adaptable with other vegetable and meat combinations.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 carrot
- 1 1/2 cup milk
- 2 ribs celery
- 1/2 onion finely chopped
- 3 potatoes peeled and cubed
- 3 cup water
- 2 cups ham fully cooked, cubed
- 1 red pepper chopped small
- 7 tablespoon butter divided
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper or black
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded or finely cubed
- 1/2 cup saltines or buttery cracker
- Carbohydrate 44.7736650062624 g
- Cholesterol 109.03364587218 mg
- Fat 63.3488164712632 g
- Fiber 3.97759171970685 g
- Protein 23.6122593864338 g
- Saturated Fat 27.3374335915427 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (469g)
- Sodium 10101.4925495773 mg
- Sugar 40.7960732865555 g
- Trans Fat 5.09643016743123 g
- Calories 840 calories
Step-by-step
- In a saucepan, bring the potatoes, carrot, celery and water to a boil.
- Reduce heat; cover and cook about 15 minutes or until tender.
- Drain.
- In a large saucepan, saute the ham, red pepper and onion in 3 tablespoons butter until tender.
- Add to the potato mixture.
- Transfer to a greased 1-1/2-qt. baking dish.
- In the large saucepan, melt the remaining butter; stir in flour until smooth.
- Gradually add the milk, salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.
- Reduce heat; add cheese and stir until melted.
- Pour over the ham mixture.
- Sprinkle with cracker crumbs.
- Bake, uncovered, at 375 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
A Weeknight Wonder: My Ham and Cheese Casserole
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and nutritious meal can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal that pleases the entire family. This Ham and Cheese Casserole has become a real weeknight lifesaver in my household. It’s simple, it's quick, and – most importantly – it’s undeniably delicious.
I stumbled across a recipe online – slightly different than my tweaked version, of course – and it sparked an idea. My version is more manageable and better fits our taste. The original recipe called for amounts of onions and green peppers that I found simply preposterous; who keeps tiny amounts of onion and green peppers readily available for cooking? I am pretty sure nobody does that! I don't do that. I adjusted the ingredient list to reflect ingredients I am more likely to have on hand. In this version, the hearty potatoes, carrots, and celery provide a base of wholesome goodness, with the savory ham and melted cheddar cheese contributing rich flavor. The cracker topping adds a satisfying crunch that elevates the dish beyond the typical casserole.
What sets this casserole apart from other similar recipes is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and meats. Instead of ham, try bacon, sausage, or even leftover roast chicken. And don’t shy away from swapping out the vegetables for others that are in season or that you happen to have on hand. Broccoli, cauliflower, and peas would all be lovely additions.
I’ve found that this casserole is a wonderful blank canvas for creativity. I love experimenting with different types of cheese – Gruyere, Fontina, or even a blend of sharp and mild cheddars – to see how they change the overall flavor profile. The recipe also easily scales up or down depending on your family size. If you're cooking for a crowd, simply double or triple the ingredients. A double batch could feed several families or could be a perfect for a holiday gathering or potluck. This hearty dish always draws compliments.
But beyond its deliciousness, this casserole has a special place in my heart. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, there is always time for a wholesome, flavorful meal prepared with love. My family truly enjoys it, and it's a meal I genuinely look forward to making each week.
This Ham and Cheese Casserole isn't just a recipe; it’s a symbol of comfort, ease, and delicious home-style cooking. It’s a testament to the fact that creating memorable meals doesn't require hours in the kitchen. Sometimes, the simplest recipes hold the greatest rewards, and this dish is a perfect example of that. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to create a delicious masterpiece that your family will adore!
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don't overcook the potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy.
- If using a different type of cheese, consider its melting point to ensure it melts evenly.
- For an extra crispy topping, brush the cracker crumbs with melted butter before sprinkling.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
This Ham and Cheese Casserole is far more than just a meal; it's an experience, a warm hug from the kitchen, and a way to make ordinary weeknights extraordinary. Try it, and I’m confident that it will become a family favorite for years to come.
