Broccoli Ham and Rice Bake

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 350
• Protein: 20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams
• Fat: 15 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Sugar: 2 grams
• Sodium: 600 mg

Why Make This Broccoli Ham and Rice Bake

Broccoli Ham and Rice Bake is the perfect comfort food that combines simplicity and flavor. This dish offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes, from the tender broccoli to the rich, savory ham and creamy cheddar cheese. It’s not only delicious but also a great way to use up leftover rice and ham, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it is a one-dish meal, which means less cleanup for you!

How to Make Broccoli Ham and Rice Bake

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup diced ham
• 2 cups chopped broccoli
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot enough to cook your delicious bake evenly.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, diced ham, chopped broccoli, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well to ensure the ingredients are evenly mixed.

Step 3: Cooking

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, salt, and black pepper until fully combined. Pour this egg mixture over the rice mixture and stir well to combine everything thoroughly.

Step 4: Finishing

Transfer the entire mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the bake is set and the top is golden brown. Once done, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Broccoli Ham and Rice Bake

This dish is best served warm, straight from the oven. You can pair it with a simple side salad for a complete meal or serve it alongside crusty bread for extra heartiness. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds a touch of color and freshness, enhancing the presentation.

How to Store Broccoli Ham and Rice Bake

To store leftovers, let the bake cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in individual containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!

Expert Tips for Perfect Broccoli Ham and Rice Bake

• For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or onion when mixing the ingredients.
• You can substitute cooked quinoa or even cauliflower rice for a gluten-free or lower-carb version of this dish.
• Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
• Make sure not to overcook the broccoli; it should be tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp.
• If you like a crispy top, broil the bake for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking.

Delicious Variations

• Cheesy Spinach Bake: Replace the broccoli with fresh spinach for a different leafy green option.
• Chili Chicken Bake: Swap out the ham for cooked, diced chicken and add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for some kick.
• Veggie Delight: Omit the ham entirely and add a variety of your favorite vegetables, making it vegetarian-friendly.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more aromatic flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
  Yes! You can prepare everything in advance and refrigerate it unbaked. Just let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

• What type of rice should I use?
  While any cooked rice works, long-grain or brown rice adds a nice texture. Just make sure to cook it before using.

• Can I use a different type of cheese?
  Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can substitute with mozzarella, Swiss, or even a blend for a unique flavor.

• How do I reheat leftovers?
  Simply place it in the microwave or heat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry.

• Is this recipe easily scalable for larger groups?
  Yes! You can easily double or triple the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Just adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

Broccoli Ham and Rice Bake is a fantastic, easy dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Its rich flavors and delightful textures make it a hit with both kids and adults alike. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a nourishing meal that the whole family will enjoy. So, roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!

Broccoli Ham and Rice Bake

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• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A comforting and flavorful one-dish meal that combines tender broccoli, savory ham, and creamy cheddar cheese, perfect for using up leftovers.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup diced ham
• 2 cups chopped broccoli
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, diced ham, chopped broccoli, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well to ensure the ingredients are evenly mixed.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, salt, and black pepper until fully combined. Pour this egg mixture over the rice mixture and stir well to combine everything thoroughly.
4. Transfer the entire mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the bake is set and the top is golden brown. Once done, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or onion. You can substitute cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice for a gluten-free option. Feel free to mix in other vegetables for added nutrition.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 120mg