Introducing a delightful culinary creation that’s sure to become a family favorite: the Ham & Crunchy Crouton Casserole. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cook time of 30 minutes, this recipe is a quick and easy option for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends or seeking a comforting meal for a cozy night in, this casserole is bound to impress with its layers of flavor and satisfying texture.
This savory dish combines the hearty goodness of ham with the irresistible crunch of golden-brown croutons, all smothered in a creamy white sauce. Each bite is a symphony of flavors and textures, making it a truly satisfying meal that’s both simple to prepare and utterly delicious.
Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup croutons (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 6 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 418.8
- Fat: 30.1g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 301.3mg
- Sodium: 454.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 13.2g
- Fiber: 0.8g
- Sugar: 1.2g
- Protein: 23.5g
Instructions:
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Prepare the White Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, cooking until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- Gradually add 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, then remove from heat.
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Prepare the Croutons:
- In a separate skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter.
- Add 1 cup of croutons to the skillet, along with any desired Italian seasoning.
- Cook the croutons until they are golden brown and fragrant, then set aside, reserving a few for the topping.
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Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
- Begin layering the ingredients in the prepared baking dish, starting with a layer of diced ham, followed by sliced hard-boiled eggs, sliced mushrooms, and a generous sprinkling of croutons.
- Continue layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of croutons on top.
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Bake the Casserole:
- Pour the prepared white sauce over the layers in the baking dish, ensuring that everything is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the reserved croutons over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden and crispy.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the Ham & Crunchy Crouton Casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Recipe Notes:
- Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can add extra vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
With its simple preparation and irresistible flavors, this Ham & Crunchy Crouton Casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether served as a hearty main dish or a satisfying side, it’s a delicious way to enjoy the classic combination of ham and crunchy croutons. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to delight your taste buds with this delectable casserole creation!
