Ham and Cheese Bake

Ham and Cheese Bake Recipe - A Delicious and Flavorful American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ham and Cheese Bake is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of ham and cheese with the sweetness of pineapple. This casserole is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or potluck.

History

The origins of Ham and Cheese Bake are unclear, but it is likely a variation of a traditional casserole dish that has been passed down through generations. This recipe has become a popular choice for home cooks looking for a simple and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

1 cup chopped onion
1 tbsp butter or margarine
1 green pepper, chopped
1.5 cup sliced celery
1 cup uncooked rice
2 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp curry powder
1 cup cubed cooked ham
1 8 oz (227 g) can pineapple chunks, drained and cut in half
1 cup cubed cheddar cheese

How to prepare

In a large skillet, cook the onion in butter until tender-crisp.
Add green pepper, celery, rice, broth, sugar, curry, and ham.
Bring to a boil, stirring well. Cover and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from the oven.
Add pineapple and cheese, and toss lightly.

Variations

Substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor.
Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as Swiss or mozzarella, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the onion until tender-crisp to bring out its flavor without making it too soft.

- Make sure to stir the ingredients well before baking to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.

- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ham and Cheese Bake with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

- Swap the curry powder for paprika or cumin for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the pineapple and cheese, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Ham and Cheese Bake with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Ham and Cheese Bake with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a delicious meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ham and Cheese Bake contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ham and Cheese Bake contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ham and Cheese Bake contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Ham and Cheese Bake contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Ham and Cheese Bake is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and may contain gluten (depending on the type of broth and curry powder used).

Summary

Ham and Cheese Bake is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Ham and Cheese Bake is a comforting and flavorful casserole that is perfect for a family dinner or potluck. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals, this dish is a satisfying and nutritious option for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, the sun shining brightly through the kitchen window as I rummaged through the old recipe box that my mother had passed down to me. As I shuffled through the yellowed index cards and faded scraps of paper, my eyes landed on a worn and tattered piece of notebook paper.

In a flowing cursive script, the words "Ham and Cheese Bake" were written at the top of the page. My heart skipped a beat as I read through the ingredients and instructions. The recipe was simple yet elegant, a perfect combination of flavors that I knew would become a favorite in my household.

I sat down at the kitchen table, the recipe clutched in my hand, and closed my eyes for a moment, letting the memories flood back to me. I remembered my grandmother, a formidable woman with a fiery spirit and a love for cooking that knew no bounds. She had been the one to introduce me to the joys of the kitchen, teaching me the art of baking and cooking from a young age.

I could still picture her standing at the stove, a cloud of flour dusting her apron as she whipped up her famous apple pie or savory pot roast. She had a knack for creating dishes that were both comforting and delicious, meals that brought our family together in a way that nothing else could.

As I set to work making the Ham and Cheese Bake, I could feel my grandmother's presence in the kitchen with me. I could almost hear her voice guiding me through the steps, her laughter ringing in my ears as I grated cheese and diced ham.

The recipe called for a simple crust made from flour, butter, and a touch of salt. I mixed the ingredients together with my hands, feeling the familiar texture of the dough coming together under my fingers. As I rolled out the crust and pressed it into the pie dish, I could almost see my grandmother nodding in approval, her eyes twinkling with pride.

Next came the filling, a luscious mixture of diced ham, shredded cheese, and a creamy custard made from eggs and milk. I poured the mixture into the crust, watching as it bubbled and sizzled in the oven, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma that made my stomach growl in anticipation.

As the Ham and Cheese Bake emerged from the oven, golden and bubbling, I knew that I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a staple in my own culinary repertoire. I sliced into the dish, the cheese oozing out in a deliciously gooey mess, and took my first bite.

The flavors exploded on my tongue, a symphony of salty ham, sharp cheese, and buttery crust that sent me spiraling back in time to my grandmother's kitchen. I closed my eyes and savored the moment, feeling her presence surrounding me like a warm embrace.

From that day on, the Ham and Cheese Bake became a regular feature on our dinner table, a dish that brought back memories of my grandmother every time I made it. I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on a piece of my heritage with each slice of the savory pie.

And as I sit here now, my hands stained with flour and my kitchen filled with the tantalizing scent of baking cheese, I can't help but smile. For in that moment, I am transported back to a time when cooking was more than just a chore, when it was a way to connect with loved ones and keep the spirit of my grandmother alive. And for that, I am eternally grateful.