Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Ham

Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Ham

8 servings
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a family favorite! Pasta, broccoli and tender ham is tossed in a quick and easy from scratch cheese sauce. This casserole is then topped with breadcrumbs and baked until bubbly and golden.

Ingredients

  • elbow macaroni
    12 oz
  • butter
    ¼ c
  • all-purpose flour
    ¼ c
  • milk
    1 ½ c
  • light cream
    1 c
  • dry mustard powder
    ½ tsp
  • onion powder
    1 tsp
  • cayenne pepper
    ¼ tsp
  • garlic powder
    ½ tsp
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • shredded sharp cheddar cheese
    2 c
  • shredded gruyere cheese
    1 c
  • shredded parmesan cheese
    ½ c
  • broccoli florets
    3 c
  • cubed cooked ham
    2 c
  • bread crumbs
    1 c
  • melted butter
    1 tbsp
  • shredded parmesan cheese
    ⅓ c

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 400°F.

  2. 2

    Cook macaroni according to package directions. Add broccoli in the last 2 minutes to cook it tender crisp. Drain and run under cold water.

  3. 3

    Melt butter over medium heat in a large saucepan. Whisk in flour and let it cook for 2 minutes while stirring. Slowly whisk in the cream, milk, and seasonings. Cook over medium heat while stirring until thickened. Remove from heat and add in the cheeses. Stir until melted.

  4. 4

    Toss cheese sauce, pasta, broccoli, and ham together. Pour into a greased 9×13 pan. Combine topping ingredients and sprinkle over macaroni.

  5. 5

    Bake 20 to 25 minutes or just until hot. Do not over cook.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Ham

Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Ham

40 min8 servings617 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving a comforting, hearty meal that brings everyone to the table? This Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Ham is a cherished family favorite, blending tender pasta, savory ham, and fresh broccoli in a rich, homemade cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection.

What makes this casserole truly special is the dedication to a from-scratch cheese sauce. You'll create a velvety foundation using butter, flour, milk, and cream, beautifully seasoned with dry mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne pepper. This creamy base perfectly coats the elbow macaroni, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Expect a symphony of textures and tastes. Imagine perfectly cooked elbow macaroni mingled with vibrant, tender broccoli florets and savory cubes of cooked ham. Each spoonful delivers a rich, creamy sauce crafted from a blend of sharp cheddar, nutty Gruyere, and salty Parmesan cheeses. The crowning glory is a golden, bubbly topping of crispy breadcrumbs and extra Parmesan cheese, providing a delightful textural contrast to the creamy interior.

Customizing this casserole is simple. While ham is a classic, you could consider other cooked proteins like shredded chicken for a different take. Feel free to vary the vegetables; perhaps adding peas or corn alongside the broccoli for extra color and sweetness. Experiment with different cheese combinations, although the specified blend offers a perfectly balanced flavor.

This Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Ham is ideal for a cozy family dinner or as a comforting dish to share at a potluck. Its hearty nature makes it a satisfying stand-alone meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad to balance the richness.

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