Chef Ema

Cheesy Ham Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Ham and cheese casserole, Creamy ham casserole, Leftover ham casserole recipe, Cheesy baked ham dish, Ham pasta bake

Cheesy Ham Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

Introduction

When it comes to hearty and satisfying meals, few dishes can compete with a Cheesy Ham Casserole. This rich, creamy, and cheesy dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a delicious way to use up leftover ham. With its versatile recipe, you can customize it to suit any occasion.

To make your cheese sauce perfect every time, check out Make a Perfect Cheese Sauce.

What Is Cheesy Ham Casserole?

This comforting casserole combines tender ham, a rich cheese sauce, and a starchy base like pasta or potatoes. It’s baked until bubbly and golden, making it a warm and inviting dish.

For ideas on toppings, explore Best Breadcrumb Toppings.

Ingredients

For the Base

  • 2 cups diced cooked ham
  • 3 cups cooked pasta, potatoes, or hash browns
  • 1 cup frozen peas or diced vegetables (optional)

For the Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

For the Topping

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Preparing the Base

  • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Layer cooked pasta or potatoes and diced ham in the dish.

2. Making the Cheese Sauce

  • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour to form a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
  • Stir in shredded cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.

3. Assembling the Casserole

  • Pour the cheese sauce over the ham and pasta or potatoes, mixing gently.

4. Adding the Topping and Baking

  • Combine breadcrumbs and melted butter; sprinkle over the casserole.
  • Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Creative Variations

  • Ham and Broccoli Casserole: Add steamed broccoli for extra nutrition.
  • Hash Brown Version: Swap the pasta for hash browns for a breakfast twist.
  • Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper in the cheese sauce.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Pair with crusty garlic bread for a complete comfort food experience.

Check out Breakfast Sausage Biscuit Gravy Casserole for another cozy casserole idea.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I freeze Cheesy Ham Casserole?

Absolutely! Freeze tightly covered for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

3. What cheeses work best?

Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Gruyère, or a cheese blend works well too.

4. How do I prevent it from drying out?

Cover with foil for the first half of baking and avoid overbaking.

Internal Linking Opportunities

Conclusion

A Cheesy Ham Casserole is a versatile, comforting, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it with creative variations and enjoy its creamy, cheesy goodness.

Blueberry French Toast Casserole: A Delicious Make-Ahead Breakfast

Overnight blueberry casserole, Baked blueberry French toast, Blueberry breakfast bake, Easy blueberry French toast recipe, Make-ahead French toast casserole

Blueberry French Toast Casserole: A Breakfast Delight

Introduction

Whether for a leisurely weekend brunch or a holiday morning feast, Blueberry French Toast Casserole brings together ease and indulgence in one dish. With a delightful combination of sweet blueberries, creamy custard, and a golden crust, it’s the ultimate comfort food.

For tips on achieving the perfect bread base, explore Perfect Bread Cubes.

What Is Blueberry French Toast Casserole?

This dish is a baked version of classic French toast, layered with cubes of bread soaked in custard and topped with blueberries. Unlike traditional stovetop French toast, this casserole is baked, making it ideal for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.

For topping ideas, check out Creative Casserole Toppings.

Ingredients

Core Ingredients

  • 1 loaf of day-old bread (French, brioche, or challah)
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Topping Ingredients

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup butter (cold, cubed)
  • Optional: ¼ cup chopped pecans or almonds

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Preparing the Base

  • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Cube the bread and layer it in the dish, spreading blueberries between the layers.

2. Making the Custard

  • Whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
  • Pour evenly over the bread and blueberries.

3. Adding the Topping

  • Mix flour, brown sugar, and butter until crumbly.
  • Sprinkle the topping over the casserole.

4. Baking

  • Cover and refrigerate overnight for best results.
  • Bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes until golden and set.

Creative Variations

  • Lemon Blueberry Twist: Add lemon zest to the custard for a bright, tangy flavor.
  • Chocolate Lovers’ Version: Mix chocolate chips into the bread layers.
  • Berry Medley: Combine blueberries with raspberries or blackberries.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute milk and cream with almond or coconut milk.

Serving Suggestions

  • Drizzle with maple syrup or sprinkle with powdered sugar.
  • Serve alongside fresh fruit, bacon, or sausages for a complete brunch spread.
  • Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy meal.

Looking for another casserole idea? Try the Overnight Creme Brulee French Toast.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

2. Can I use frozen blueberries?

Absolutely! Use them straight from the freezer without thawing to prevent extra moisture.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Cover and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

4. What’s the best type of bread for this dish?

Day-old bread like French, brioche, or challah works best as it soaks up the custard without becoming mushy.

Internal Linking Opportunities

Conclusion

With its sweet custard, juicy blueberries, and golden topping, Blueberry French Toast Casserole is a breakfast or brunch masterpiece. Easy to prepare ahead and customizable to suit any palate, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Experiment with variations and serve it at your next gathering for a dish everyone will love.

Easy Butterscotch Crunchies: A Quick No-Bake Treat

No-bake butterscotch crunchies, Easy butterscotch dessert, Butterscotch and peanut butter treats, Crunchy no-bake cookies, Simple butterscotch snacks

Butterscotch Crunchies: A Sweet No-Bake Treat

Introduction

If you’re searching for an effortless, crowd-pleasing dessert, Butterscotch Crunchies are the perfect solution. These no-bake treats combine the rich, creamy flavor of butterscotch with a delightful crunch, making them a favorite for holidays, parties, and quick cravings.

What Are Butterscotch Crunchies?

Butterscotch Crunchies are a no-bake dessert made with butterscotch chips, peanut butter, and a crunchy base like chow mein noodles or cornflakes. They’re known for their simplicity and versatility, allowing for creative variations to suit every occasion.

For tools to streamline the no-bake process, check out Best Tools for No-Bake Treats.

Ingredients

Core Ingredients

  • 2 cups butterscotch chips
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 4 cups chow mein noodles or cornflakes

Optional Additions

  • Mini marshmallows for extra chewiness
  • Sprinkles for a festive touch
  • Shredded coconut for a tropical flair

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Melting the Butterscotch Base

  • Heat butterscotch chips and peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
  • Alternatively, use a double boiler for gentle heating.

2. Adding the Crunch

  • Gently fold in chow mein noodles or cornflakes, ensuring every piece is well-coated.

3. Shaping and Cooling

  • Drop spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or press into a greased pan for bars.
  • Let cool at room temperature or refrigerate for faster results.

Creative Variations

  • Chocolate Butterscotch Crunchies: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips for a marbled effect.
  • Nutty Crunchies: Mix in chopped almonds or cashews.
  • Holiday-Themed Crunchies: Use red and green sprinkles for Christmas or pastel shades for Easter.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve on a dessert platter alongside no-bake classics like Smores Jars.
  • Pair with coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy snack.
  • Wrap in festive packaging for a delightful gift.

FAQs

1. Can I make these treats gluten-free?

Yes, ensure the cereal or noodles you use are certified gluten-free.

2. How do I store Butterscotch Crunchies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for extended freshness.

3. Can I freeze them?

Absolutely! Freeze in a single layer before transferring to an airtight container.

4. Why is my mixture too sticky?

Ensure you don’t overheat the butterscotch mixture, which can cause separation.

Internal Linking Opportunities

Conclusion

Butterscotch Crunchies are the epitome of an easy and satisfying dessert. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a treat that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Experiment with variations and share them with loved ones for a sweet touch to any occasion.

Lazy Girl’s Pecan Pie Bars: A Simple and Delicious Shortcut Dessert

Easy pecan pie bars, Shortcut pecan pie, Pecan dessert bars, Simple pecan pie recipe, Holiday pecan pie bars

Lazy Girl’s Pecan Pie Bars: A Delicious Shortcut Recipe

Introduction

When it comes to effortless desserts, Lazy Girl’s Pecan Pie Bars are a standout option. With all the flavors of a classic pecan pie but none of the fuss, these bars are perfect for busy bakers or last-minute treats.

For tips on perfecting your crust and fillings, explore Perfectly Chop Pecans.

What Are Lazy Girl’s Pecan Pie Bars?

These bars are a simplified, handheld version of the traditional pecan pie. Featuring a buttery crust topped with a rich, nutty filling, they’re a versatile dessert that works for holidays, potlucks, or indulgent snacks.

To simplify the process further, check out Corn Syrup Alternatives for creative options.

Ingredients

Crust Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

Filling Ingredients

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup light corn syrup (or maple syrup for a twist)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups chopped pecans
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Crust

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  • Mix butter, powdered sugar, and flour until a crumbly dough forms.
  • Press into a greased 9×13 baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling

  • Whisk together eggs, corn syrup, sugar, vanilla, and salt.
  • Stir in chopped pecans until evenly coated.

3. Assemble and Bake

  • Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust.
  • Bake for 30–35 minutes until the center is set.
  • Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars.

Creative Variations

  • Chocolate Pecan Bars: Add chocolate chips to the filling for an extra indulgence.
  • Maple Walnut Bars: Replace pecans with walnuts and corn syrup with maple syrup.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour for the crust.
  • Vegan Alternative: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and butter with coconut oil.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with vanilla ice cream for a warm dessert experience.
  • Present on a festive platter for holiday parties.
  • Wrap individual bars in wax paper for gifting.

Looking for another classic dessert? Try Kentucky Butter Cake.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-made crust?

Yes, a store-bought crust works well to save time.

2. How do I store pecan pie bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze the bars?

Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.

4. Why is my filling runny?

The bars need to cool completely to allow the filling to set properly.

Internal Linking Opportunities

Conclusion

Lazy Girl’s Pecan Pie Bars are the ultimate combination of simplicity and indulgence. With a buttery crust and rich, caramelized pecan topping, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. Experiment with variations to make them your own, and enjoy the convenience of this shortcut recipe.

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies: A Holiday Favorite

Pecan snowball cookies, Holiday snowball cookies, Mexican wedding cookies, Russian tea cakes, Festive pecan cookies, Powdered sugar cookies

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies: A Festive Treat for All Seasons

Introduction

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are a classic, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that never goes out of style. Known for their delicate texture, buttery richness, and the crunch of pecans, these cookies are a staple for festive occasions and everyday indulgence.

To achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, ensure you follow the steps outlined in this guide. For tips on cookie dough preparation, check out Perfect Cookie Dough Tips.

What Are Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?

These cookies, also known as Mexican wedding cookies or Russian tea cakes, are a delightful treat made with a blend of butter, powdered sugar, finely chopped pecans, and flour. Their signature snowball-like appearance comes from a generous coating of powdered sugar.

For an overview of the best tools to simplify holiday baking, explore Essential Holiday Baking Tools.

Ingredients

Core Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup finely chopped pecans
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Extra powdered sugar for coating

Optional Additions

  • 1 teaspoon almond extract for added flavor.
  • Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for variety.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Dough

  • Cream the butter and powdered sugar together until fluffy.
  • Mix in vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add flour and salt, then fold in pecans.
  • Chill the dough for 30 minutes to enhance shaping.

2. Shaping and Baking

  • Preheat oven to 350°F.
  • Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Bake for 12–15 minutes or until bottoms are lightly golden.

3. Coating the Cookies

  • Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while warm to ensure the sugar adheres.
  • Allow them to cool and roll again for a thicker coating.

Creative Variations

  • Chocolate Snowballs: Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate and sprinkle with chopped pecans.
  • Cinnamon-Spiced Snowballs: Add ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive twist.
  • Gluten-Free Snowballs: Substitute almond or coconut flour.
  • Lemon Snowballs: Incorporate lemon zest and a splash of juice for a tangy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve on a decorative platter for holiday parties.
  • Pair with hot cocoa, tea, or coffee.
  • Wrap in festive tins as gifts for loved ones.

Looking for more holiday dessert inspiration? Try Kentucky Butter Cake for a rich and moist cake alternative.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, shape the dough into balls and freeze them on a tray before transferring to a container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

2. How do I prevent the cookies from being too crumbly?

Ensure the butter is softened but not melted. Proper creaming of the butter and sugar is key.

3. Can I store the cookies after baking?

Absolutely! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

4. Why roll the cookies twice in powdered sugar?

The first coating sticks better when the cookies are warm, while the second layer adds a thicker, sweeter finish.

Internal Linking Opportunities

Conclusion

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are an easy-to-make yet decadent treat that brings joy to every bite. Whether you’re making them for a holiday celebration or as a quick snack, these cookies are sure to please. Experiment with variations and share them with friends and family for a truly memorable experience.

2025 Exorecipes. All rights reserved.

Contact Us

Privacy Policy

About me