Ham Upside-down Casserole

Ham Upside-down Casserole Recipe - A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Ham Upside-down Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. This casserole features a savory combination of ham, lima beans, corn, and cheese, all baked together in a flavorful batter. The dish is then inverted onto a plate, creating a beautiful presentation that is sure to impress your guests.

History

The origins of Ham Upside-down Casserole are unclear, but it is likely that this dish has been enjoyed by home cooks for many years. Casseroles have long been a popular choice for busy families looking for a convenient and satisfying meal, and this recipe is no exception. The combination of ham and vegetables in a creamy batter is a classic comfort food that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

1.5 cups cubed cooked ham
1 tsp worcestershire sauce
1 cup cooked and drained lima beans
8 oz (227 g) can cream style corn
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tbsp minced onions
0.67 cup all-purpose baking mix
0.33 cup cornmeal
1 egg
0.25 cup milk
parsley

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the ham, beans, corn, cheese, onions, and Worcestershire sauce.
Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish, then cover and bake for 15 minutes.
In another bowl, mix the remaining ingredients (except parsley) and spoon it over the hot meat mixture.
Spread the batter evenly to the edges of the casserole.
Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
Cut the casserole into wedges and invert each onto a plate.
Garnish with parsley.

Variations

Substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor.
Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the vegetable mixture for extra color and texture.
For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and add extra vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or broccoli.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the ham and vegetables until they are just tender, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

- For a more flavorful casserole, try adding some herbs or spices to the batter, such as thyme, garlic powder, or paprika.

- To make this dish ahead of time, prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

- For a crispy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the batter before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ham Upside-down Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish pairs well with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a successful Ham Upside-down Casserole is to cook the ham and vegetables until they are just tender, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Be sure to spread the batter evenly over the hot meat mixture to ensure even baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have lima beans, you can use any other type of cooked beans, such as kidney beans or black beans. You can also substitute the cornmeal with flour or cornstarch if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months, then thawed and baked as directed.

Presentation Ideas

To make a beautiful presentation, garnish the casserole with fresh parsley or chopped chives before serving. You can also sprinkle some grated cheese or breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.

Pairing Recommendations

Ham Upside-down Casserole pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or a crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Ham Upside-down 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 Upside-down Casserole contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ham Upside-down Casserole contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ham Upside-down Casserole contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Ham Upside-down Casserole contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Ham Upside-down Casserole is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and milk) and eggs.

Summary

Ham Upside-down Casserole is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. However, it is high in calories and may not be suitable for those on a low-calorie diet.

Summary

Ham Upside-down Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. This savory casserole features a flavorful combination of ham, vegetables, and cheese, all baked together in a creamy batter. With a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can create a beautiful and delicious meal that is sure to impress your guests.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Ham Upside-down Casserole. It was a crisp autumn day, and I had just finished browsing through a dusty old cookbook that I had found tucked away on a forgotten shelf in my aunt's kitchen. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, I came across a recipe that caught my eye - a delicious-looking casserole made with ham, pineapple, and a rich, creamy sauce.

I had never seen anything quite like it before, and I knew that I had to try making it myself. After all, cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I love experimenting with new recipes and flavors. So, armed with the recipe and a basket full of fresh ingredients, I set to work in my own kitchen.

The first step was to prepare the ham. I carefully sliced it into thick, juicy pieces, savoring the savory aroma that filled the air. Next, I diced up some sweet, tangy pineapple and set it aside to add a burst of tropical flavor to the dish. Then, I whipped up a creamy sauce made with butter, flour, milk, and a pinch of nutmeg, which would bind all the ingredients together in a delicious, gooey mixture.

As I assembled the casserole, I couldn't help but marvel at how the layers of ham, pineapple, and sauce came together to form a beautiful, golden-brown masterpiece. I placed it in the oven to bake, and as the tantalizing scent of bubbling cheese and ham filled the kitchen, I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special.

When the casserole was finally ready, I couldn't wait to dig in. I scooped out a heaping portion onto my plate and took my first bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the salty ham, the sweet pineapple, the creamy sauce - it was a harmonious blend of tastes and textures that left me craving more.

After that first bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire. I shared it with my friends and family, who all raved about how delicious it was. I even entered it into a community cooking competition, where it won first prize and earned me a spot in the local newspaper.

Over the years, I have continued to make this Ham Upside-down Casserole for special occasions and family gatherings. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of that crisp autumn day when I first discovered the recipe and the sense of wonder and excitement that filled me as I cooked it for the first time.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the many recipes I have collected and mastered over the years, I am grateful for the joy that cooking has brought into my life. It has allowed me to connect with my loved ones, express my creativity, and create lasting memories around the dinner table. And for that, I am truly thankful.