Cheesy Ham and Pea Comfort

This cheesy ham and pea casserole is our answer to a cozy weeknight dinner that everyone asks for again and again. Creamy cheddar sauce soaks into tender rice while bites of ham and sweet peas keep every spoonful hearty and crave-worthy. When schedules get hectic or you need to stretch leftovers, this classic casserole saves the day.

I still remember the first time I made this after a holiday ham dinner when the fridge was full of odds and ends. It quickly became a comfort food favorite at our house and now I keep the ingredients on hand for last-minute dinners.

Ingredients

• Cooked rice: Makes the base hearty and filling. Use freshly steamed or day-old for best results.
• Cubed ham: Gives a satisfying savory bite and is easy to find at the deli counter. Choose quality ham with a little marbling for flavor.
• Frozen green peas: Add sweetness and color. Look for peas that are bright green and free of frost burn for the best texture.
• Cream of chicken soup: Makes the sauce creamy and binds everything together. Choose a low-sodium version if you like to control the salt.
• Sour cream: Adds tang and keeps the casserole moist. Select one with full fat for creaminess.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Gives rich gooey flavor. Go for sharp cheddar and shred your own for a meltier top.
• Hot sauce: Is optional but brings subtle depth. I like to use just a couple dashes for added zing.
• Salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder: Allow you to season each layer. Use fresh ground pepper and garlic powder with a sweet aroma for best taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Baking Dish:

Grease a nine by thirteen baking dish thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit so it is ready when your casserole goes in.

Mix Ingredients:

In a large bowl gently fold together the cooked rice cubed ham frozen peas cream of chicken soup sour cream two cups of shredded cheddar cheese and all the seasonings. Take time to mix well for even distribution without breaking up the rice too much. Reserve one cup of cheese for topping later.

Assemble Casserole:

Pour the casserole mixture into the prepared baking dish spreading it evenly from corner to corner with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese over the top to form a thick cheesy layer that will melt and brown during baking.

Bake Until Golden:

Place the casserole in the center rack of the oven and bake uncovered for about thirty minutes. Watch for bubbling along the edges and a golden crust on top which signals the casserole is ready to serve.

Cool and Serve:

Allow the casserole to sit for five minutes after baking. This gives the creamy sauce time to thicken for neater slices. Dish up and enjoy.

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Nothing beats the sharp cheddar cheese layer as it turns golden and bubbly. I love how the aroma draws everyone into the kitchen and we always end up spooning just a little more from the edges before it hits the table.

Storage Tips

This casserole keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days covered tightly to preserve its moisture. For longer storage divide into portions and freeze for up to one month. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a sprinkle of extra cheese to restore the creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of ham cooked chicken or turkey are tasty alternatives. Feel free to swap in different vegetables such as corn or chopped broccoli if peas are not your favorite. Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangy twist and try Monterey Jack or Colby cheese for a milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve generous squares of this casserole with a crisp green salad and warm rolls for a complete meal. It also pairs well with applesauce or roasted carrots for extra color on the plate. My family loves it with a simple cucumber salad for a cool refreshing side.

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A Bit of Comfort Food History

Casseroles like this one have roots in classic American home cooking where convenience and comfort go hand in hand. Combining leftover meats with simple pantry staples gave busy cooks a way to stretch their meals. Today the tradition lives on and this ham and pea casserole remains a beloved staple in many kitchens.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute fresh peas for frozen peas?

Fresh peas can be used, but frozen peas are preferred as they hold up better during baking and retain their texture well.

→ What can I use instead of rice in this dish?

Quinoa, couscous, or small pasta shapes like orzo can be great alternatives to rice, offering different textures and flavors.

→ Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Adding a dash of hot sauce or mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes before baking can introduce a gentle heat without overpowering the flavors.

→ How can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Assemble the mixture and cover it tightly. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for longer storage. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed.

→ What does adding breadcrumbs before baking do?

Sprinkling breadcrumbs on top creates a crispy, golden crust that adds texture and contrast to the creamy interior.