Broccoli Ham Casserole Recipe

Broccoli florets: Fresh, green florets that are the main vegetable component of the dish.

Cooked ham: Diced pieces of ham that add a savory and meaty flavor.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Provides a rich and creamy texture to the casserole.

Milk: Used to create the creamy sauce that binds the casserole together.

Butter: Adds richness and helps to create the roux for the sauce.

All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth to the flavor profile.

When making the sauce for this casserole, ensure you cook the flour and butter mixture for the full 1-2 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps eliminate the raw flour taste and creates a smoother, more flavorful béchamel base.

• broccoli florets - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower has a similar texture and can be used in the same way as broccoli in casseroles.

• cooked ham - Substitute with cooked turkey: Cooked turkey provides a similar protein content and can be a leaner option.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the dish.

• milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Almond milk can be used to reduce dairy content while maintaining a creamy texture.

• butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used to reduce saturated fat while still providing richness.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can thicken the sauce similarly to flour and is gluten-free.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar level of saltiness along with a depth of flavor.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat without altering the color of the dish.

• Allow the broccoli ham casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the cooled casserole into an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.
• Store the casserole in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within 3-4 days. This ensures that the broccoli and ham retain their texture and flavor.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. Place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it securely with heavy-duty aluminum foil. This will protect it from freezer burn and preserve its quality.
• Label the container with the date and contents. This will help you keep track of how long it has been stored and ensure you use it within a reasonable time frame.
• When ready to reheat, if the casserole is frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing process helps maintain the dish's integrity.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before reheating. This ensures that the casserole heats evenly and thoroughly.
• Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent the top from drying out. This will help retain moisture and keep the cheese melty and delicious.
• Bake the casserole for 20-30 minutes, or until it is heated through and bubbly. If you prefer a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Enjoy your reheated broccoli ham casserole as if it were freshly made, savoring the blend of flavors and textures.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover broccoli ham casserole in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Transfer a portion of the casserole to a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, then stir.
  4. Continue microwaving in 1-minute intervals until the casserole is heated through.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the skillet.
  3. Add the leftover broccoli ham casserole to the skillet.
  4. Stir occasionally, heating for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the casserole in an air fryer-safe dish or line the basket with parchment paper.
  3. Heat for 10-15 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Slow Cooker Method:

  1. Transfer the leftover broccoli ham casserole to your slow cooker.
  2. Set the slow cooker to low heat.
  3. Cover and heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the casserole is thoroughly warmed.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) until it is bubbly and golden on top.

• Large pot: Used to steam the broccoli florets until they are tender.

• Saucepan: Used to melt the butter and prepare the sauce by mixing in flour, milk, salt, and pepper.

• Steamer basket: Placed inside the large pot to hold the broccoli florets above the boiling water for steaming.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the steamed broccoli, diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, and the prepared sauce.

• Baking dish: Used to transfer the mixed ingredients for baking in the oven.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the broccoli florets, cooked ham, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the butter, all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper.

• Wooden spoon: Used to stir the ingredients in the saucepan and mixing bowl.

• Knife: Used to dice the cooked ham into small pieces.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface for dicing the cooked ham.

• Whisk: Used to stir the milk into the butter and flour mixture to create a smooth sauce.

Pre-cook ingredients: Steam the broccoli florets and dice the ham in advance to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for shredded cheddar cheese from the store to cut down on prep time.

Make the sauce ahead: Prepare the butter, flour, and milk sauce a day before and store it in the fridge.

One-pot method: Combine all ingredients in a single pot before transferring to the baking dish to minimize cleanup.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.