Brocolli casserole – cookingfoodss

Broccoli Casserole with Baked Ham and Scalloped Potatoes

A Hearty, Cheesy, One-Dish Meal

This Broccoli Casserole with Baked Ham and Scalloped Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food. Layers of tender broccoli, savory ham, and thinly sliced potatoes are baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce, creating a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or potlucks.

With its combination of protein, vegetables, and indulgent cheese sauce, this casserole is a one-pan meal everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and filling
Combines veggies, protein, and creamy potatoes
Cheesy, golden, and comforting
Easy to prepare ahead
Perfect for family dinners or holiday tables

Ingredients (6–8 servings)

For the Casserole:

3 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed
2 cups cooked ham, diced
4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mix of cheddar & Swiss)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

For the Cream Sauce:

3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

For the Topping:

½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
½ cup additional shredded cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened.
Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat.
Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheese for a cheesy base.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Base

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom.
Layer half the broccoli florets and half the diced ham over the potatoes.
Sprinkle half the chopped onions and minced garlic.
Pour half of the cream sauce over the layers.
Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, broccoli, ham, onions, and cream sauce.

Step 3: Add Topping

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, and remaining ½ cup shredded cheese.
Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
Optional: Sprinkle paprika for color.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Test the potatoes with a fork to ensure they are tender.

Step 5: Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes slicing easier.

Serve on its own or with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Broccoli Ham Scalloped Potato Casserole

Pre-steaming the broccoli prevents it from overcooking in the oven.
Thinly slice potatoes for faster, even cooking.
Use leftover baked ham or deli ham for convenience.
For extra creaminess, add ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce.
Make ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, refrigerate, and bake the next day.

Delicious Variations

Cheesy Bacon Twist: Add crumbled cooked bacon for smoky flavor.
Mushroom Variation: Add sautéed mushrooms with the onions.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika in the cream sauce.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can be frozen before baking: cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Casserole with Baked Ham and Scalloped Potatoes is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s a one-dish meal that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or any occasion that calls for comfort food. Soft potatoes, tender broccoli, savory ham, and a cheesy golden topping — this casserole truly has it all.