When it comes to quick, satisfying, and family-friendly dinners, few dishes rival the comfort and ease of a ham casserole with broccoli and rice. This one-dish meal combines tender chicken ham, fluffy long-grain rice, and vibrant broccoli florets in a creamy, cheesy sauce, topped with a crispy Ritz cracker crust. Whether you’re cooking for a weekday dinner or preparing something hearty for a potluck, this dish is a go-to recipe.
Its versatility makes it even more appealing. You can adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary preferences, swap out proteins, or add different vegetables for a personal twist. The result? A dish that’s just as nutritious as it is indulgent. You can explore more about versatile ingredients like long-grain rice to ensure the right texture for your casserole.
Ingredient Breakdown
The magic of this ham casserole lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes this recipe special:
- Casserole Base: The blend of chicken broth and uncooked white long-grain rice creates a flavorful and fluffy foundation. A touch of olive oil ensures the rice cooks evenly.
- Protein Power: Diced chicken ham brings a smoky, savory element, making every bite satisfying. For alternatives, consider turkey or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Fresh Vegetables: Broccoli florets not only add color but also pack essential nutrients. If you’re curious about other broccoli dishes, check out these creative broccoli recipes.
- Creamy Components: A mix of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk ties everything together with a smooth texture.
- Cheddar Cheese: Rich, shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully into the casserole, adding depth and flavor.
- Ritz Cracker Topping: For that irresistible crunch, crushed Ritz crackers combined with melted butter provide the perfect finishing touch. Learn more about this ingredient’s history here.
For substitutions, use reduced-sodium broth to cut back on salt or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option.
Preparation Steps
Cooking a ham casserole with broccoli and rice is straightforward, but careful preparation can make all the difference. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth cooking process.
1. Preheat the Oven and Prep Your Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly. While the oven heats, gather all ingredients and tools, including a 9×13-inch casserole dish, a large saucepan, and a wooden spoon for mixing.
Having everything prepped in advance—like dicing the onion and chicken ham, measuring out the rice and broth, and shredding the cheese—can save time and prevent last-minute scrambling. To minimize cleanup, lightly grease your casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray.
For additional casserole inspiration, visit family-friendly dinner favorites.
2. Sautéing the Onions
In a large saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is essential for building the casserole’s flavor base.
Onions release their natural sweetness when sautéed, which balances the savory ingredients. Make sure to avoid high heat, as it may cause the onions to burn instead of caramelizing.
If you’re new to cooking casseroles, you might find helpful tips in this guide to comfort food recipes.
Cooking the Casserole Base
1. Cooking the Rice
With the onions sautéed to perfection, add chicken broth, olive oil, and uncooked white long-grain rice to the same saucepan. Stir gently to combine the ingredients, then bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and allow the rice to simmer for approximately 8 minutes. This step ensures the rice absorbs the flavorful broth without overcooking.
If you’re considering a healthier variation, you might explore using brown rice for added fiber, though it will require longer cooking times. Ensure the rice remains moist but not overly wet, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
2. Steaming the Broccoli
After the rice has simmered for 8 minutes, add the broccoli florets directly to the saucepan without stirring. This method allows the broccoli to steam gently, locking in its bright green color and crisp-tender texture.
Replace the lid and continue to cook the mixture for an additional 7 minutes. This dual-purpose cooking step keeps the rice fluffy and the broccoli perfectly cooked, reducing the need for multiple pans.
If any liquid remains in the saucepan after this step, let the mixture simmer uncovered for 1–2 minutes. This ensures the base is neither too dry nor overly moist, setting the stage for the next step. For more ideas on using broccoli in creative ways, check out these broccoli dishes.
Combining the Casserole Mixture
1. Mixing the Ingredients
Once the rice and broccoli are cooked to perfection, it’s time to combine all the delicious components. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for about 10 minutes. This allows any remaining moisture to settle and the rice to release from the bottom of the pan.
Next, gently fold in the diced chicken ham, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and evenly blended. For added flavor, incorporate half of the shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt into the mixture, enhancing its creamy texture.
Make sure to taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. If you’re looking for healthier substitutions, consider using reduced-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt. For more tips on enhancing casseroles, check out these meal prep tips.
Baking Instructions
1. Assembling the Casserole
Now that the casserole mixture is ready, it’s time to assemble it for baking. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or a nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Pour the prepared mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly to ensure every serving is packed with flavor.
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This cheese layer will melt during baking, creating a golden, bubbly crust that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. This initial bake ensures the casserole heats through evenly without drying out. For more dinner ideas with similar steps, visit family dinner favorites.
2. Adding the Ritz Cracker Topping
After 15 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and take off the foil. Prepare the topping by mixing crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer. Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the topping to crisp up beautifully
Topping and Serving
1. Preparing the Ritz Cracker Topping
The finishing touch for this casserole is the crispy and buttery Ritz cracker topping. Start by crushing 1 cup of Ritz crackers into fine crumbs. You can do this by placing the crackers in a resealable plastic bag and using a rolling pin to crush them.
In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. This topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy casserole. For other creative ways to top casseroles, check out comfort food recipes.
2. Final Baking and Presentation
Once the topping is prepared, evenly distribute it over the surface of the casserole. Spread the crumbs gently to cover as much area as possible, ensuring each bite gets a bit of that buttery crunch.
Bake the casserole uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 10 minutes or until the topping turns golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and the casserole to set, making it easier to serve. For presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of paprika for added color. Pair this dish with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
FAQs Section
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white long-grain rice, but keep in mind that brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. Adjust the chicken broth quantity accordingly, and extend the simmering time by about 10–15 minutes to ensure the rice cooks fully.
2. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to the point of adding the topping. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature, then follow the baking instructions. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
3. What are some other topping options?
If you don’t have Ritz crackers, consider alternatives like breadcrumbs, crushed pretzels, or even cornflakes for a unique twist. For a cheesier finish, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese or parmesan on top. These variations can add a fun new layer of flavor and texture to your casserole.
4. How can I make this casserole healthier?
To lighten up the dish, use low-fat cheddar cheese, reduced-sodium chicken broth, and light sour cream. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and increase the broccoli quantity for extra nutrients. This makes the casserole more balanced without compromising on flavor.
5. What can I substitute for chicken ham?
If chicken ham isn’t available, try regular diced ham, smoked turkey, or even rotisserie chicken. For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu or roasted mushrooms for a protein-rich alternative. Each substitution adds its own unique flavor while keeping the casserole hearty and satisfying.
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Ham Casserole with Broccoli and Rice
Description
This Ham Casserole with Broccoli and Rice is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It combines tender chicken ham, fluffy long-grain rice, and nutrient-packed broccoli florets in a rich, flavorful sauce, topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that works equally well for meal prep or as a hearty dish to share.
Ingredients
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the casserole (excluding the topping) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping and bake when ready to serve. Perfect for saving time on busy days!
- Ingredient Substitutions:
- Use regular ham or smoked turkey in place of chicken ham.
- Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
- Substitute brown rice for a whole-grain option but extend the cooking time.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or bake the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken ham with firm tofu or roasted mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Enhancements:
- Add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Stir in cooked, diced carrots or peas for additional veggies.
- Freezer-Friendly: Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). - Sauté Onions:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onions and cook for 5 minutes until softened. - Cook Rice:
Add the chicken broth, olive oil, and uncooked rice to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover tightly and cook for 8 minutes. - Steam Broccoli:
Add the broccoli to the pot, replace the lid, and cook for an additional 7 minutes without stirring.
Note: If any liquid remains in the pot and the rice isn’t fully cooked, simmer for up to 5 more minutes or until done.
- Rest the Rice:
Remove the pot from heat and leave the cover on. Let the rice sit for 10 minutes to allow any rice stuck at the bottom to release. - Combine Ingredients:
Add the diced chicken ham, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot. Stir until well combined. - Assemble Casserole:
Spread the mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. - Add Cheese:
Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. - Bake Covered:
Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. - Prepare Topping:
Combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. - Bake with Topping:
Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle the Ritz cracker topping evenly over the dish, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes. - Rest and Serve:
Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the casserole (excluding the topping) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping and bake when ready to serve. Perfect for saving time on busy days!
- Ingredient Substitutions:
- Use regular ham or smoked turkey in place of chicken ham.
- Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
- Substitute brown rice for a whole-grain option but extend the cooking time.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or bake the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken ham with firm tofu or roasted mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Enhancements:
- Add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Stir in cooked, diced carrots or peas for additional veggies.
- Freezer-Friendly: Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
