Cheesy Ham and Pea Casserole

This cheesy ham and pea casserole has quickly become a true go-to at my house for nights when we need something warmhearted but the clock is ticking. I love how everything mixes up in one bowl, then bakes into bubbly comfort food the whole family dives into happily. It is budget-friendly, filled with protein and veggies, and could not be easier to get onto the table.

I whipped this up on a busy school night once, and my kids asked to have it every week. It checks every box for taste, budget, and simplicity.

Ingredients

• Cooked rice: gives the casserole hearty comfort and stretches other ingredients opt for long-grain white for best texture and avoid mushy options like risotto rice
• Cubed ham: adds savory flavor plus protein pre-diced ham works well or dice up leftover roast ham for even more taste
• Frozen peas: brighten the casserole and hold their shape in baking choose peas that are vibrant green and avoid packages with too much ice
• Cream of chicken soup: provides creamy body and rich flavor check for a low-sodium can to keep the salt in check
• Sour cream: makes it extra creamy and adds tanginess use full-fat for best results
• Shredded cheddar cheese: brings everything together with melty goodness choose sharp or medium cheddar and shred your own for superior melt
• Hot sauce: brings a subtle depth without heat use a dash to lift all the other flavors
• Salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder: round out the seasoning freshly cracked pepper and onion powder add a nice punch here

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 F and generously grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish to prevent sticking and create those delicious golden edges

Mix the Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl combine cooked rice cubed ham frozen peas cream of chicken soup sour cream two cups of shredded cheddar most of your seasonings and hot sauce stir thoroughly until everything is evenly coated and no pockets of cream remain

Layer the Casserole:

Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish spreading it into an even layer with a spatula then sprinkle the last cup of cheese in an even blanket over the top

Bake Until Bubbly:

Place your dish on a center rack and bake uncovered for around thirty minutes watch for bubbling at the edges and melted golden cheese up top

Cool Slightly and Serve:

Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for five minutes this helps it set so slices hold together when served

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I always look forward to that first spoonful where the melted cheddar mingles with savory ham and sweet peas. When my youngest got to help sprinkle on the cheese, she declared it the best dinner ever.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat single portions in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep things creamy. For longer storage, let the casserole cool completely before wrapping well and freezing. It keeps well for about three months and reheats right from frozen.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap in turkey or cooked chicken for ham if that is what you have on hand. Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup can take the place of cream of chicken for a different flavor twist. For a gluten-free version, use a certified gluten-free condensed soup and double-check that your other ingredients are safe.

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Serving Suggestions

I like to round out this casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are wonderful on the side, perfect for scooping up any extra cheesy sauce.

Cultural Context

This style of casserole is a nostalgic classic for many American families and often appears on holiday tables or potlucks. It has roots in making use of leftovers and convenient pantry staples but has stayed popular because it delivers pure comfort in every bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it heats through.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Cool completely, wrap portions tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

→ Are there substitutions for ham?

Cooked chicken, turkey, or even cooked sausage work nicely if you're out of ham. For a vegetarian option, add extra vegetables or use beans.

→ Can I use fresh vegetables instead of peas?

Absolutely! Try fresh or steamed broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers—just chop and mix in with the other ingredients before baking.

→ What type of rice is best?

Any cooked white or brown rice works well. For a quicker option, use instant rice. Ensure the rice is fully cooked before combining it with other ingredients.

→ How can I add extra crunch?

Sprinkle a layer of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the top before baking for a delicious golden topping.