Creamy Ham Broccoli Casserole Recipe Perfect for Dinner

The smell of melted cheese bubbling away in the oven, mingling with the savory aroma of ham and fresh broccoli—it’s pure comfort, isn’t it? The first time I made this Creamy Ham Broccoli Casserole, I was trying to use up leftovers from a holiday ham, and let me tell you, I was blown away. It was the kind of dish that made me pause, take a bite, and just smile because it was everything I wanted: creamy, cheesy, and downright satisfying. My family couldn’t stop going back for seconds (and thirds), and I knew I had stumbled upon something special.

This recipe is a nostalgic nod to those cozy dinners growing up—you know, the ones where everyone gathered around the table for a warm, hearty meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when you just need a quick dish without sacrificing flavor. Honestly, it’s become one of those recipes I wish I had known about sooner! Whether you’re cooking for your kiddos or impressing friends, this casserole is bound to be a hit. Bookmark this one, because once you try it, you’ll be making it on repeat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
• Quick & Easy: Prepped and ready to bake in under 30 minutes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck, this casserole shines.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about the creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit dietary needs or preferences.

What makes this recipe stand out is how it balances comfort and convenience. The creamy sauce wraps around the tender broccoli and savory ham, creating the kind of flavor that makes you close your eyes and savor every bite. It’s great for using up leftovers or turning simple ingredients into a show-stopping meal. Plus, it’s versatile—impress guests or serve it as a hearty weeknight dinner. It truly checks all the boxes!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and creamy texture without any fuss. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• Ham: Diced or shredded, perfect for using up leftovers.
• Broccoli: Fresh or frozen florets. (Fresh gives the best texture!)
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded, sharp or mild depending on your preference.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: Adds creaminess and depth of flavor. (Use gluten-free if needed.)
• Milk: Whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk.
• Onion: Finely diced for extra savory flavor.
• Butter: Unsalted, for sautéing the onion.
• Breadcrumbs: Optional, for a crispy topping.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste—a little goes a long way!

If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t worry! You can swap frozen broccoli for fresh or use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom. This casserole is incredibly forgiving, so feel free to adapt it to suit your pantry.

Equipment Needed

• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly.
• Large Skillet: For sautéing onions and prepping the sauce.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine the casserole ingredients.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Knife: For chopping ham and broccoli.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for prep work.

If you don’t have breadcrumbs for the topping, you can use crushed crackers or skip it altogether—no need to run to the store!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish and set it aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Stir in the sautéed onion.
4. Add the diced ham and broccoli florets to the bowl and mix well, ensuring everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
5. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
6. If you’re adding breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the cheese for a bit of crunch.
7. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tip: If your broccoli is fresh, blanch it for 2-3 minutes in boiling water before adding it to the casserole. This helps maintain its vibrant color and tender texture.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Making this casserole is simple, but a few tips can take it to the next level:

• Fresh vs. Frozen: Use fresh broccoli for the best texture, but frozen works in a pinch—just make sure to thaw and drain it first.
• Cheese Selection: Don’t shy away from experimenting! Try a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
• Breadcrumbs: Toast them briefly with a little melted butter before sprinkling on top for an irresistible crunch.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the casserole to prevent the cheese from becoming too brown or the broccoli from over-softening.

Remember, cooking is all about trial and error. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of milk. If the casserole seems dry, cover it with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.

Variations & Adaptations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ham for sautéed mushrooms or roasted cauliflower.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or skip the topping altogether.
• Seasonal Twist: Add chopped asparagus or zucchini during springtime.

I’ve tried adding a handful of cooked rice to the mix for an even heartier dish—it was a hit! Feel free to customize the recipe based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This casserole is best served warm, straight out of the oven. Pair it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For beverages, a chilled glass of white wine or lemonade complements the creamy flavors beautifully.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes. If freezing, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Creamy Ham Broccoli Casserole is packed with protein from the ham and cheese, plus plenty of fiber and vitamins from the broccoli. A serving typically contains:

• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 20g

It’s naturally gluten-free if you skip the breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free alternative, and it’s easy to adapt for low-carb diets.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a creamy, comforting dish that’s as easy as it is delicious, this Creamy Ham Broccoli Casserole is it. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, it’s a recipe worth trying. I love how it brings together simple, everyday ingredients to create something that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Creamy Ham Broccoli Casserole

Print Recipe

A creamy, cheesy casserole featuring ham and broccoli, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings.

• Author: Amanda
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups diced or shredded ham
• 3 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup whole milk or dairy-free alternative
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish and set it aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Stir in the sautéed onion.
4. Add the diced ham and broccoli florets to the bowl and mix well, ensuring everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
5. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
6. If you’re adding breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the cheese for a bit of crunch.
7. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Blanch fresh broccoli for 2-3 minutes in boiling water before adding to the casserole for vibrant color and tender texture. Toast breadcrumbs briefly with melted butter for extra crunch.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3
• Sodium: 750
• Fat: 20
• Saturated Fat: 10
• Carbohydrates: 12
• Fiber: 2
• Protein: 15

Keywords: ham casserole, broccoli casserole, creamy casserole, easy dinner, comfort food