Imagine a warm, bubbling casserole that pulls together the comforting flavors of melted cheese, crisp broccoli, and smoky ham—all in one hearty dish. That’s exactly what Cheesy Broccoli & Ham Delight delivers, turning a simple weeknight dinner into a celebration of classic comfort food.
What makes this casserole special is the balance between the creamy cheese sauce and the subtle saltiness of the ham, while the broccoli adds a bright, slightly bitter contrast that keeps the dish from feeling heavy.
This recipe is perfect for busy families, college students, or anyone craving a filling, nostalgic meal. Serve it on a chilly Monday or as a potluck centerpiece on the weekend; it never disappoints.
The cooking process is straightforward: blanch the broccoli, sauté the ham, whisk together a luscious cheese sauce, combine everything in a baking dish, and bake until golden and bubbling. In less than an hour, you’ll have a crowd‑pleasing casserole ready to enjoy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
One‑Pan Simplicity: All components come together in a single baking dish, meaning fewer pots, less cleanup, and more time to enjoy the meal.
Family‑Friendly Flavor: The creamy cheddar‑Swiss blend appeals to both kids and adults, while the ham adds a savory depth that feels grown‑up.
Nutritious Boost: Each serving provides a solid serving of broccoli, delivering fiber, vitamin C, and calcium alongside protein‑rich ham.
Make‑Ahead Friendly: Assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and bake straight from the fridge for a stress‑free dinner.
Ingredients
The magic of this casserole lies in its harmony of textures and flavors. Fresh broccoli crowns provide a slight crunch and a burst of green color, while diced smoked ham contributes a salty, smoky backbone. A blend of sharp cheddar and smooth Swiss cheese creates a velvety sauce that clings to every bite. Finally, a light dusting of breadcrumbs adds a golden crust that finishes the dish with a satisfying crunch.
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1 ½ cups diced smoked ham
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Swiss cheese
- ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
Sauce & Binding
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all‑purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon ground mustard
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Seasonings & Topping
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)
Each ingredient plays a purpose: the butter and flour create a roux that thickens the sauce, while the milk adds richness without overwhelming the cheese. The mustard and garlic powder lift the flavor profile, ensuring the sauce never feels one‑dimensional. Finally, the breadcrumb topping, brushed with melted butter, turns the casserole’s surface into a golden, crunchy crown that’s impossible to resist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Vegetables & Ham
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2‑3 minutes, just until they turn a bright emerald green. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice‑water bath to halt cooking and preserve color. While the broccoli cools, dice the smoked ham into bite‑size cubes; set both aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- Build the Roux. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons all‑purpose flour over the butter and whisk constantly for 1‑2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden hue. This cooks out the raw flour taste and forms the base for a silky sauce.
- Incorporate Milk. Gradually pour ½ cup milk into the roux while whisking vigorously. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens, about 3‑4 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce coating the back of a spoon—that’s the perfect consistency.
- Season & Melt Cheese. Add ¼ teaspoon ground mustard, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Reduce heat to low, then stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar and ½ cup shredded Swiss until fully melted and smooth. The sauce should be glossy and fragrant.
Assembling the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9‑x‑13‑inch baking dish. Spread the blanched broccoli evenly across the bottom, then scatter the diced ham over the broccoli. Pour the cheese sauce over the top, using a spatula to ensure every piece is coated. This layering guarantees each bite gets a balanced mix of vegetables, meat, and sauce.
Adding the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole. The butter helps the breadcrumbs turn a deep golden brown, creating a satisfying contrast to the creamy interior.
Baking to Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20‑25 minutes, or until the topping is crisp and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. If the breadcrumbs brown too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil for the last 5 minutes. Once done, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving; this allows the sauce to set and makes slicing cleaner.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
Blanch, Don’t Overcook. Keep broccoli crisp by limiting the blanch to 2‑3 minutes and shocking in ice water; this prevents a mushy texture once baked.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese. Fresh cheese melts more uniformly, giving the sauce a silkier mouthfeel compared to pre‑shredded varieties that contain anti‑caking agents.
Flavor Enhancements
Add a splash of dry white wine to the sauce before the milk for an extra layer of depth. A pinch of smoked paprika can amplify the ham’s smokiness, while a teaspoon of Dijon mustard brightens the overall flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t skip the resting period; cutting too soon releases steam and makes the sauce runny. Also, avoid using too much milk—excess liquid prevents the topping from crisping and results in a soupy casserole.
Pro Tips
Pre‑Make the Sauce. The cheese sauce can be prepared up to a day ahead and refrigerated; simply reheat gently before assembling the casserole.
Toast the Breadcrumbs. Lightly toast panko in a dry skillet with a drizzle of butter before sprinkling; this ensures an even, deeper golden color.
Season the Broccoli. Toss the blanched broccoli with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil before layering; it adds subtle seasoning throughout.
Use a Thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee the ham is heated through without over‑cooking the cheese.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
Swap smoked ham for cooked bacon bits, diced turkey, or even cooked sausage for a different protein profile. If broccoli isn’t your favorite, try cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, or a mix of winter vegetables. For a cheese twist, substitute part of the cheddar with mozzarella or Gruyère for extra meltiness.
Dietary Adjustments
Make it gluten‑free by using gluten‑free flour and panko or almond meal for the topping. For a dairy‑free version, replace butter with olive oil, use a plant‑based milk (such as oat or almond) and swap the cheeses for a vegan cheddar blend. Low‑carb diners can omit the breadcrumbs entirely or use crushed pork rinds.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the casserole with a simple mixed‑green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of garlic‑buttered rice or buttered noodles works well for those craving extra carbs. For a lighter plate, serve alongside roasted sweet potatoes or a crisp cucumber‑tomato salad.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer keeping, portion into freezer‑safe containers, wrap with a layer of plastic wrap followed by foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat leftovers in a preheated 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 15‑20 minutes until warmed through; uncover for the final 5 minutes to re‑crisp the breadcrumb topping. In a microwave, heat individual portions on medium power for 2‑3 minutes, stirring halfway, and add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
This Cheesy Broccoli & Ham Delight casserole brings together creamy cheese, smoky ham, and crisp broccoli in a single, comforting bake. With clear step‑by‑step instructions, storage tips, and creative variations, you have everything needed to make it a staple in your dinner rotation. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or protein swaps—cooking is your canvas. Serve it hot, share it with loved ones, and enjoy every cheesy, buttery bite.
