Introduction
Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Bake is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. This hearty dish features a delightful combination of savory ham, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese, creating a symphony of flavors that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Not only is it delicious, but it also packs a nutritional punch, making it a well-rounded meal option for any occasion.
What sets this dish apart is its ease of preparation. With a straightforward recipe that anyone can follow, both novice and experienced cooks will find joy in creating this comforting bake. It’s a one-dish wonder that brings together protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend meals.
Recipe Overview
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Servings: 6
– Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
– 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 2 cups cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced ham, blanched broccoli, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, heavy cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to incorporate all ingredients.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil until evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
The Appeal of Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Bake
Cheesy casseroles like this one have long been a staple in home cooking, cherished for their comforting nature and ability to feed a crowd. This Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Bake stands out by blending protein-rich ham with nutritious broccoli and hearty pasta, creating a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Its versatility allows for numerous variations, whether you want to swap out ingredients based on dietary preferences or simply use what you have on hand. The combination of flavors and textures appeals to all ages, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients Overview
– Fresh broccoli florets: Packed with vitamins and minerals, broccoli adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
– Cooked ham: A rich source of protein, ham enhances the flavor profile and adds heartiness.
– Cooked pasta: Using types like penne or rotini provides a delightful texture that holds onto the cheese sauce.
– Cheddar and mozzarella cheeses: These cheeses offer a wonderful blend of sharpness and creaminess, melting beautifully in the bake.
– Heavy cream and milk: These ingredients create a luscious cheese sauce that binds everything together.
– Spices and seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard elevate the dish’s flavor, adding depth and excitement.
– Breadcrumbs: They add a satisfying crunch on top, contrasting the creamy filling.
– Olive oil: Used for both the sauce and breadcrumb topping, it adds richness and helps achieve a golden finish.
Preparation Steps Explained
In this section, we will delve deeper into the preparation steps, offering tips and tricks to ensure your Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Bake turns out perfectly every time. Whether it’s the best way to blanch broccoli or how to achieve the ideal cheese-to-sauce ratio, we’ll cover it all!
Preparation Process
Preheating the Oven
Preheating the oven is a crucial step in achieving the perfect Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Bake. Setting the oven to the correct temperature, typically around 350°F (175°C), ensures even cooking throughout the dish. An adequately preheated oven helps the cheese sauce bubble and brown nicely while giving the broccoli the right amount of cooking time without becoming mushy.
Blanching Broccoli
Blanching the broccoli is an essential technique to preserve its vibrant green color and crunchy texture. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green. Immediately transfer the broccoli to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This quick method not only retains the broccoli’s nutrients but also enhances the dish’s overall appeal.
Making the Cheese Sauce
To create a smooth and creamy cheese sauce, begin by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add an equal amount of flour to create a roux, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, then reduce the heat and incorporate your choice of cheeses, stirring until melted and well combined. To prevent curdling, ensure the heat is not too high and avoid adding cheese too quickly.
Combining Ingredients
When combining the ingredients, it’s vital to ensure an even distribution of flavors. In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the blanched broccoli and diced ham into the cheese sauce. This method prevents the broccoli from breaking apart and helps maintain its texture. You can also add cooked pasta to the mix for a heartier dish.
Transferring to the Baking Dish
For optimal layering and presentation, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly, ensuring that every bite has a balanced ratio of broccoli, ham, and cheese sauce. Tapping the dish gently on the counter can help settle the ingredients.
Preparing the Breadcrumb Topping
To achieve a crunchy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and a sprinkle of paprika or garlic powder for added flavor. Evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the bake. This step not only enhances the dish’s texture but also adds a delightful contrast to the creamy filling.
Baking
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Look for a crispy crust and a slightly firm center as indicators of doneness. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Serving Suggestions
Ideal Accompaniments
The Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread. A light salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish, while garlic bread adds a comforting touch.
Suggestions for Garnishing
For an elegant presentation, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the bake.
Dietary Options
For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe can easily be adapted. Substitute gluten-free pasta to make it a gluten-free option or use plant-based ham and cheese for a vegetarian version. These adjustments can make the dish more inclusive while still retaining its delicious essence.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Bake typically contains approximately:
– Calories: 400
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Fats: 20g
Including broccoli in your diet adds important nutrients such as vitamins C and K, while protein-rich ham contributes to muscle health and satiety, making this dish a balanced meal option.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Bake is a simple yet incredibly delicious dish that appeals to the whole family. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender broccoli, and savory ham, it’s a comfort food classic that can be prepared with ease. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own by experimenting with different ingredients or seasonings. Enjoy this delightful bake any night of the week, and relish the smiles it brings to your table.
