The Cheesy Ham and Rice Casserole is the epitome of Midwest comfort food. This easy-to-make dish transforms leftover ham, tender rice, and melty cheddar cheese into a creamy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners. With minimal prep and a one-pan bake, it’s ideal for families or anyone craving a homestyle classic.
This casserole offers the perfect balance of creamy and savory. Frozen peas add a pop of sweetness and color, while the optional green bell pepper brings in a fresh crunch. It’s easy to make ahead, store, or reheat, making it a reliable go-to for meal planning. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or looking for a crowd-pleaser, this casserole has you covered.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups cooked white rice
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2 cups diced cooked ham
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1 cup frozen peas
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1/2 cup finely chopped onion
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1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional)
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1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1/2 cup milk
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1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
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1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional garnish)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, ham, peas, onion, bell pepper, and cheddar cheese.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, milk, salt, and pepper.
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Pour the soup mixture over the rice and ham mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
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Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
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Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
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Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is golden brown.
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Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 410 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Cheesy Ham and Rice Casserole: A Hearty Classic Made Easy
Few things evoke the warmth of home quite like a bubbling casserole pulled fresh from the oven. The Cheesy Ham and Rice Casserole is one of those comforting dishes that checks all the right boxes: creamy, cheesy, savory, and deeply satisfying. It’s a staple in many American households and for good reason. Whether you’re using up leftover holiday ham or prepping a make-ahead weeknight dinner, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
This casserole isn’t just another one-pan wonder; it’s a nostalgic nod to family dinners around the table, church potlucks, and cold-weather comfort food. It embodies simplicity and heartiness in one creamy, cheesy bake.
The Origins and Comfort of the Casserole
The term casserole refers both to the dish and the method of cooking. Traditionally baked in a deep, oven-safe pan, casseroles became wildly popular in the U.S. during the mid-20th century for their convenience and affordability. Home cooks could stretch ingredients like leftover meat and vegetables into hearty meals that fed the whole family.
The ham and rice combination itself likely grew out of post-holiday ingenuity. After large meals like Easter or Christmas, families often found themselves with leftover ham. Rather than letting it go to waste, they transformed it into delicious secondary meals. Adding rice, soup, and cheese helped bulk it up while providing richness and flavor.
Why This Dish Works
What makes this Cheesy Ham and Rice Casserole so appealing? It’s the perfect blend of textures and flavors. Creamy mushroom soup binds the ingredients into a luscious filling. The ham brings a smoky, salty edge that’s perfectly balanced by the mild sweetness of peas. Sharp cheddar cheese infuses depth and creaminess, while the rice gives the whole dish a soft, fluffy foundation.
But the beauty of this casserole lies beyond the flavor. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and feeds a crowd. You don’t need fancy ingredients or gourmet techniques. In fact, it’s ideal for novice cooks or anyone with a packed schedule.
Nutritional Balance and Substitutions
Though rich in comfort, this casserole offers a balance of macronutrients too:
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Protein from ham and cheese
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Carbohydrates from rice
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Fats from sour cream and cheddar
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Fiber and vitamins from peas and optional veggies
If you’re looking to lighten it up, consider using:
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Brown rice or quinoa for more fiber and whole grains
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Low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese
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Turkey ham or lean chopped chicken as a lower-fat meat option
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Cream of celery or cream of chicken soup as alternates to mushroom
Gluten-free? Simply ensure your soup is certified gluten-free or use a homemade white sauce with gluten-free flour.
Flavor Enhancements and Add-ins
Though the base recipe is delightful as-is, it’s also highly customizable. Add your personal touch with one or more of the following:
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Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for brightness
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Crushed garlic sautéed with the onions for extra aroma
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Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
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Chopped spinach or kale for extra greens
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Corn kernels for sweetness and color
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Topping options like buttery breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers for crunch
This versatility makes the dish not only tasty but endlessly adaptable to what’s already in your fridge or pantry.
Pairing Suggestions
Wondering what to serve with this hearty casserole? Since it’s quite filling on its own, you don’t need much. Here are some ideas for side dishes that complement it beautifully:
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A crisp green salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness
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Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli
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Warm dinner rolls or crusty baguette slices to scoop up the creamy goodness
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Applesauce or a fruit salad, which adds a fresh, sweet counterbalance
For beverages, keep it casual. A cold glass of milk or iced tea is perfect for a family meal. If you’re enjoying this with guests, a chilled Chardonnay or a light-bodied Pinot Noir pairs nicely with the ham and cheese elements.
Storage and Reheating Tips
One of the biggest benefits of a casserole like this is how well it stores. It’s a meal prep champion!
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To store leftovers: Cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
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To freeze: Place the fully cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic and foil. It will keep well for up to 3 months.
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To reheat: Bake covered at 350°F until hot (about 20–25 minutes from chilled). For microwave reheating, add a splash of milk and cover loosely with a lid or damp paper towel to maintain moisture.
Pro tip: If you plan to freeze it, slightly undercook the rice so it doesn’t go mushy upon reheating.
A Dish for All Occasions
This casserole’s flexibility also makes it ideal for all kinds of occasions. Serve it as:
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A weeknight dinner when you’re too tired to think
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A meal train option for families with new babies or during recovery
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A potluck or church supper contribution
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A cozy holiday brunch side next to eggs and fresh fruit
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A perfect leftover ham solution after big holidays
It’s warm, homey, and satisfying exactly what comfort food should be.
A Make-Ahead Marvel
If you’re planning ahead, this recipe is incredibly convenient. You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, just pop it into the oven, no extra prep needed. You can also divide the mixture into smaller portions and freeze for future single-serve meals. Great for busy individuals or small households!
Conclusion
In a fast-paced world, there’s something beautiful about dishes like Cheesy Ham and Rice Casserole. It’s not flashy or trendy, but it delivers what we all need at the end of a long day comfort, nourishment, and the feeling of home. With familiar ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a wholesome, family-approved meal on the table without stress.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a bite of old-fashioned goodness, this casserole deserves a spot in your regular rotation. Bookmark it, customize it, and make it your own, it’s a recipe that loves you right back.