Ultimate Ham Broccoli Casserole: A Hearty, Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food Delight

Ultimate Ham Broccoli Casserole Recipe You Need to Try

Introduction

If you crave a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole, this Ultimate Ham Broccoli Casserole delivers unbeatable flavor, hearty texture, and easy prep. Melty cheese melds with tender broccoli and savory ham, creating a dish that’s rich, filling, and ideal for any busy weeknight or get-together. Even picky eaters will be clamoring for seconds, making it a true family favorite!

What Makes This Ham Broccoli Casserole Stand Out?

This recipe combines wholesome ingredients—juicy ham, nutrient-packed broccoli, a creamy cheese sauce, and a satisfying crispy topping—for a casserole that’s comforting yet packed with flavor. The combination of smoky ham and fresh broccoli ensures each bite offers a pop of contrasting textures and tastes, while the rich sauce brings everything together harmoniously.

Essential Prep Tools and Shortcuts

For quick and precise veggie dicing, the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper saves tons of time and helps achieve uniform broccoli florets. Need to reheat leftovers or finish with an ultra-crispy topping? The COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt is perfect for that. And when creating the perfect omelet-style egg layer or sautéing vegetables, reach for the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch for flawless, even cooking.

How to Make the Ultimate Ham Broccoli Casserole

This casserole is a breeze: blanch broccoli, sauté onions, whisk up a cheesy sauce, combine with ham and cooked pasta, and top with a generous layer of crispy breadcrumbs or cheese. Everything bakes together into bubbling, delicious comfort food.

Perfect Pairings & Storage Tips

Enjoy this casserole with a crisp green salad transported in a Bentgo Salad Container for a complete meal, or store leftovers in airtight containers like Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers for easy lunches throughout the week. The casserole also freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead dish.

Nutritional Information and Serving Suggestion

This recipe serves six hearty portions, each providing balanced protein from ham, vitamins from broccoli, and a moderate dose of cheesy indulgence. Enjoy with a side of whole grain bread or atop steamed rice for a more substantial meal.

Ingredients

3 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
2 cups cooked ham, diced
1 medium onion, diced
2 cups cooked pasta (rotini or penne work great)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup panko or regular breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt, to taste
Optional: dash of hot sauce for heat
Olive oil or cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for easy cleanup.
  2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the broccoli for 1-2 minutes until bright green and just tender, then drain and set aside.
  3. Using a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper to dice onions, melt butter in a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch over medium heat. Sauté onions until softened, about 4 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle flour over the onions, whisk, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, garlic powder, mustard, pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 2 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese until smooth and melted. Add hot sauce if desired.
  6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, blanched broccoli, ham, and cheese sauce. Mix well, then transfer to the prepared baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and panko or breadcrumbs. Lightly drizzle with olive oil or spritz with an YARRAMATE 16oz/470ml Oil Sprayer for Cooking for extra crispiness.
  8. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until casserole is bubbling and topping is golden brown. For extra crunch, finish under the broiler for 2 minutes.
  9. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Ultimate Ham Broccoli Casserole Recap

This Ham Broccoli Casserole comes together quickly for a comforting, craveable main dish. With a lush, cheesy interior and crispy top, it’s a guaranteed hit—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and meal prep alike. Don’t be surprised when there are no leftovers!

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