**Title: Cozy Nights Call for Delicious Ham and Broccoli Casserole**
Hey there, food lovers!
As the days get shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a warm, hearty meal that gives you all the cozy feels. I’m excited to share one of my favorite comfort dishes that I’ve managed to keep on the healthier side—without skimping on flavor! Say hello to your new dinnertime savior: the Healthy Ham and Broccoli Casserole.
I’m all about creating Healthy Food Recipes that don’t sacrifice taste, and this casserole checks all the boxes. It’s easy to make, loaded with broccoli goodness, and has just enough savory ham to make you want seconds. Best part? You probably have most of these ingredients sitting in your kitchen right now!
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups of cooked ham, diced (leftover holiday ham works wonders here!)
– 1 bunch of fresh broccoli, chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (or go part-skim for a lighter option)
– 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt (adds creaminess without the guilt)
– 1/2 cup of milk (I like to use almond milk, but any will do)
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs
– 1 cup of cooked quinoa or brown rice for a healthier twist
**Instructions:**
1. **Prep the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). The comforting aroma that fills the house is one of my favorite parts of baking casseroles.
2. **Veggie Time:**
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss the onions and garlic in until they’re fragrant and the onions are translucent. Add the broccoli and sauté until just tender—usually around 5 minutes. This step brings out the best flavors in the broccoli and onions.
3. **Mix it All Up:**
In a large bowl, combine your sautéed veggies with the diced ham, cheddar cheese, Greek yogurt, milk, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Add the cooked quinoa or brown rice. Stir it all together until everyone in the bowl gets along wonderfully.
4. **Casserole Dish:**
Transfer this delicious mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle a little extra cheese on top if you’re feeling cheesy!
5. **Bake to Perfection:**
Pop the casserole into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Try not to hover in the kitchen—it’ll be tempting, I know!
6. **Serve and Enjoy:**
Let it cool for a moment, then serve up generous portions to your eager dinner companions. Pair it with a green salad for an extra burst of veggies.
**My Tips & Tricks:**
– **Leftover Magic:** This Healthy Food Recipe is perfect for using up leftover holiday ham, but deli-style ham works if you’re in a pinch.
– **Cheese Choices:** Feel free to switch up the cheese based on your preference. A mix of cheddar and mozzarella can make for an extra gooey texture.
– **Time Saver:** Use pre-steamed broccoli if you’re short on time. It’s all about simplifying when life gets busy!
This Ham and Broccoli Casserole has been loved at our family table multiple times. It’s one of those Healthy Food Recipes that proves you don’t need to sacrifice comfort for nutrition. Let me know if you give it a try, and of course, share your own twists in the comments below!
Until next time, stay cozy and keep cooking!
❤️ [Your Name]