Introducing a delightful dish that will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection: Rice and Ham Casserole! This savory creation is perfect for those busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a potluck gathering. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a flavorful meal that everyone will love.
🕒 Cook Time: 45 minutes
🕒 Prep Time: 30 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups long-grain rice
- 1 1/2 cups broccoli, chopped
- 2 1/2 cups ham, diced
- 2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions:
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Prepare Rice: Start by cooking the long-grain rice according to the package directions. Once cooked, transfer the rice to the bottom of a greased 9×13 baking dish, creating a solid base for your casserole.
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Layer Ingredients: Next, it’s time to layer your ingredients on top of the rice. Begin by evenly distributing the chopped broccoli, diced ham, sliced mushrooms, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the rice layer. This combination of flavors and textures will add depth to your casserole.
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Prepare Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, milk, dry mustard, curry powder, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. This creamy sauce will serve as the flavorful binding agent for your casserole, infusing each bite with rich and savory goodness.
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Spread Sauce: Once the sauce is ready, pour it evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the sauce, ensuring that it covers the entire surface of the casserole. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy and decadent texture throughout the dish.
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Finish with Parmesan: To add a final touch of flavor and texture, sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese generously over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt into golden perfection as the casserole bakes, creating a deliciously crispy and savory crust.
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Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and then place the assembled casserole in the oven. Allow it to bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through. The aroma of the savory ingredients melding together will fill your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table.
Once the Rice and Ham Casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Then, slice it into generous portions and enjoy the hearty flavors and comforting textures with your loved ones. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive potluck gathering, this delicious casserole is sure to impress every time!
