Cheesy Ham and Rice Casserole
What Started it all:
ham, rice, cheese
This Cheesy Ham and Rice Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that's perfect for a family dinner. Combining the smokiness of ham, the creaminess of cheese, and the heartiness of rice, this recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cooked rice
- 2 cups of diced ham
- 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of milk
- 1/2 cup of chicken broth
- 1/4 cup of butter
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the rice according to package instructions if not already cooked.
- Prepare the sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until it forms a paste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, diced ham, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Pour the sauce over the rice mixture and stir until well combined.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the cheese.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
This Cheesy Ham and Rice Casserole is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the best of comfort food. It's easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a family of four. Enjoy this hearty meal with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete dinner.