Ham and Corn Casserole

Ham and Corn Casserole Recipe - A Delicious American Classic

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Ham and Corn Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for a family dinner or potluck. This casserole combines the savory flavors of ham with the sweetness of corn, all baked together in a creamy sauce and topped with cheese and breadcrumbs.

History

The exact origins of Ham and Corn Casserole are unclear, but casseroles have been a popular dish in American cuisine for decades. This particular recipe likely originated in the Midwest, where hearty and comforting dishes are a staple.

Ingredients

3 tbsp reduced-calorie margarine
3 tbsp flour
1.5 cups skim milk
0.5 tsp dry mustard
0.25 tsp salt
0.13 tsp pepper
0.25 tsp worcestershire sauce
1 (20 oz (567 g)) can whole kernel corn, drained
0.25 cup chopped onion
0.25 cup chopped green pepper
2 cups cubed lean cooked ham
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 cup grated low-fat processed american cheese

How to prepare

Prepare a white sauce by combining margarine, flour, and milk. Stir in mustard, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Add corn, onion, green pepper, and ham.
Pour the mixture into a non-stick casserole dish and top with breadcrumbs and cheese.
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 25 minutes or until the mixture becomes bubbly.

Variations

For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapenos to the casserole.
To make this dish vegetarian, omit the ham and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack, for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the canned corn well before adding it to the casserole to prevent excess liquid in the dish.

- For added flavor, consider using smoked ham or adding a sprinkle of paprika or garlic powder to the sauce.

- To make this dish even more indulgent, you can top it with crispy bacon pieces or fried onions before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ham and Corn Casserole as a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs well with crusty bread or dinner rolls.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a successful Ham and Corn Casserole is to cook the white sauce until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This will ensure a creamy and luscious texture for the casserole.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have skim milk on hand, you can use any type of milk or milk alternative in this recipe. You can also substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge until you're ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

For a more elegant presentation, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, over the top of the casserole before serving. You can also garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of paprika for added color.

Pairing Recommendations

Ham and Corn Casserole pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a glass of iced tea or lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Ham and Corn Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ham and Corn Casserole contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ham and Corn Casserole contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ham and Corn Casserole contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Ham and Corn Casserole contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Ham and Corn Casserole is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and milk) and wheat (breadcrumbs), so it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten allergies.

Summary

Ham and Corn Casserole is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Ham and Corn Casserole is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or potluck. With its creamy sauce, savory ham, and sweet corn, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Ham and Corn Casserole. It was a cold winter day, and I had just finished browsing through the shelves of a quaint little bookstore in town. As I made my way to the checkout counter, a small, tattered cookbook caught my eye. The title read "Comfort Food Classics" and I couldn't resist flipping through its pages.

As I perused the recipes, one in particular caught my attention - Ham and Corn Casserole. The simplicity of the ingredients and the warm, comforting flavors described in the recipe immediately sparked my interest. I knew I had to try it out for myself.

That evening, I gathered the necessary ingredients - leftover ham from Sunday dinner, a can of sweet corn, cheddar cheese, butter, and a few spices. As I chopped the ham into bite-sized pieces and mixed it with the corn, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me.

I remembered my own grandmother, a skilled cook who taught me the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients in every dish. She had a knack for creating delicious meals out of whatever she had on hand, and I had learned so much from watching her work her magic in the kitchen.

As I layered the ham and corn mixture in a baking dish, sprinkling cheese and spices on top, I couldn't help but smile at the memories that flooded back to me. The smell of the casserole baking in the oven filled the house with a warm, inviting aroma that reminded me of family gatherings and holiday meals.

When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The cheesy, gooey dish was a hit with my family, and I knew I had found a new favorite recipe to add to my collection.

Over the years, I have made this Ham and Corn Casserole countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my tastes. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about its deliciousness and begged for the recipe.

I often think back to that fateful day in the bookstore, when I stumbled upon the recipe that would become a staple in my kitchen. It serves as a reminder of the joy and comfort that cooking can bring, and the power of a good meal to bring people together.

As I continue to explore new recipes and add to my collection, I am grateful for the lessons I have learned from my grandmother and the memories we shared in the kitchen. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am thankful for the opportunity to share that passion with others through dishes like my beloved Ham and Corn Casserole.