Hey there, lovely readers!
Today, I’m inviting you into my kitchen to whip up a dish that epitomizes cozy comfort food without any guilt: a mouthwatering Ham Casserole. This delightful dish checks all the boxes for being simple, scrumptious, and surprisingly healthy. As always, we’re keeping it within our “Healthy Food Recipes” realm because who says you can’t have your casserole and eat it too?
**Why You’ll Love This Ham Casserole**
Life in the suburbs can get hectic, and on days when errands run long or kids’ activities take over the schedule, I find myself turning to casseroles. They’re the unsung heroes of weeknight dinners—comforting, easy to prepare, and great for sneaking in those extra veggies. Plus, this Ham Casserole is a one-dish wonder, leaving you with less dishes and more time to binge-watch your favorite series.
Do you remember those leftovers from holiday dinners? Yep, this recipe is perfect for utilizing any leftover ham. But hey, if youʼre really craving it outside of holiday season, a quick trip to your local deli works just as well.
**Here’s What You’ll Need:**
– 2 cups cooked ham, cubed
– 3 cups broccoli florets (swap in your favorite veggies)
– 1 cup cooked quinoa (substitute for brown rice if you like)
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (for that golden, bubbly top)
– 1 ½ cups Greek yogurt (keeping it creamy and healthy)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Step-by-Step Cooking Adventure:**
**Step 1: Preheat and Prep**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven works its magic, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish lightly with olive oil. Trust me here, even the non-stick pans appreciate a little love.
**Step 2: Veggie Love**
Lightly steam your broccoli florets. I usually pop mine into the microwave with a splash of water for about 3 minutes. Perfectly crisp and vibrant!
**Step 3: Mixing Magic**
In a large bowl, combine the cooked ham, broccoli, cooked quinoa, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Stir it all together. This is where you can truly embrace your inner artist—it’s all about mixing until combined without squishing the poor broccoli.
**Step 4: Into the Dish**
Spread everything evenly in your prepared baking dish. Top with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. We’re talking about the golden crown here!
**Step 5: Bake & Enjoy**
Slide the dish into that welcoming oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and just starting to get toasty on top.
**Step 6: Serve and Savor**
Dish out this hearty casserole straight from the oven—it’s a hit every time. Paired with a crisp side salad, you’ve got a balanced meal that’ll leave them asking for seconds.
**A Few Optional Tips:**
– Got some peas, bell peppers, or carrots? Toss them in! This Ham Casserole plays well with anything vegetable.
– Want to keep it even lighter? Skip the cheese or use a low-fat version, but remember, everything’s better with a little melty goodness.
This Ham Casserole is a staple in my repertoire of Healthy Food Recipes, offering a delightful way to nourish your family with layers of flavor and nostalgia. Plus, those leftovers? Perfect for lunch the next day, warming up beautifully either in the microwave or a quick oven bake.
So there you have it, friends—a taste of health, simplicity, and comfort all in one dish. Let me know how it turns out for you, and don’t forget to sprinkle in your own flair!
Happy cooking and even happier eating!
P.S. Don’t forget to share your casserole creations with me on social media using #HealthyFoodRecipes. I can’t wait to see how yours turns out! 🍽️✨