Cheesy Ham and Pea Dish

This cheesy ham and pea casserole is a warmhearted dinner that comes together quickly and satisfies everyone at the table. Using simple ingredients like leftover ham, frozen peas, and cooked rice, it combines creamy cheddar cheese and a touch of sour cream to create a comforting dish you can rely on any busy night. Baked until bubbly and golden, it is perfect for family meals or feeding a crowd with minimal effort.

I whipped this up on a busy school night once and my kids loved it so much they have been asking for it every week since. It hits all the right notes for taste, ease, and comfort.

Ingredients

• Cooked rice: adds hearty texture and stretches the dish choose longgrain white for the best fluffiness and avoid stickier types like risotto rice
• Cubed ham: provides savory protein prediced works fine or dice up leftover roast ham for deeper flavor
• Frozen peas: brighten the casserole with sweet bursts of color and flavor pick peas that are vibrant green with minimal ice buildup
• Cream of chicken soup: creates a creamy, rich base opt for low sodium versions to control saltiness
• Sour cream: adds creamy tang and moistness full fat ensures best creaminess
• Shredded cheddar cheese: melts beautifully to bind everything sharp or medium cheddar freshly shredded gives best taste and melt
• Hot sauce: lifts flavors with a subtle tang just a dash enhances without too much heat
• Salt pepper onion powder and garlic powder: round out the seasoning freshly cracked pepper and onion powder add noticeable punch

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Generously grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish to prevent sticking and create golden, crispy edges during baking.

Mix the Ingredients:

In a large bowl combine the cooked rice cubed ham frozen peas cream of chicken soup sour cream and two cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Add the salt pepper onion powder garlic powder and a dash of hot sauce. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated and no pockets of cream remain.

Layer the Casserole:

Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish spreading it out into an even layer with a spatula. Then sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese in an even layer over the top.

Bake Until Bubbly:

Place the baking dish on the center rack of the oven and bake uncovered for about thirty minutes. Watch for bubbling at the edges and a golden melted cheese crust forming on top.

Cool Slightly and Serve:

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for five minutes. This resting time helps it set so you can slice and serve without it falling apart.

I always look forward to that first scoop where the creamy cheddar melts perfectly with savory ham and sweet peas. One time my youngest got to help sprinkle the cheese on top and declared it the best dinner ever which made it all the more special.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat single servings in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep the casserole creamy. For longer storage cool completely then wrap tightly and freeze. It will keep well for about three months and can be reheated directly from frozen.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap turkey or cooked chicken for ham depending on what you have. Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup works instead of cream of chicken for a different flavor profile. For glutenfree needs use certified glutenfree soup and doublecheck other ingredients for safety.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for some fresh greens. Warm garlic bread or soft dinner rolls are great alongside to scoop up extra cheesy sauce.

This cheesy ham and pea casserole is the perfect weeknight comfort food that feeds a crowd. Make it ahead and freeze for easy dinners.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ How can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Assemble the casserole up to the baking stage, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it's heated through.

→ Can leftovers be frozen?

Yes, allow the casserole to cool completely, wrap portions tightly, and freeze for up to two months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or microwave until hot.

→ What are good substitutions for ham?

Cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage work well as alternatives. For a vegetarian option, increase vegetables or add beans for extra protein.

→ Can fresh vegetables replace peas?

Absolutely! Fresh or steamed broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers can be chopped and mixed in before baking for a different texture and flavor.

→ Which type of rice is best for this dish?

Long-grain white or brown rice works best to maintain texture without becoming mushy. Instant rice or leftover cooked rice are convenient options as well.

→ How can I add extra crunch?

Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the top before baking. This creates a golden, crispy crust that complements the creamy interior.