This Cheesy Ham and Zucchini Bake is a delightful and hearty dish that combines tender zucchini, savory ham, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food for a family dinner or even as a make-ahead meal. The zucchini adds a fresh, light texture, while the ham provides a salty richness that pairs perfectly with the melted cheese. This bake is simple to prepare and can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings
Cuisine
This dish is inspired by American comfort food, where casseroles and bakes are a go-to for quick, satisfying meals. Combining vegetables, protein, and cheese in one dish makes it both hearty and flavorful, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Full List of Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Zucchini: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchinis into thin rounds or half-moons. Lay them out on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to absorb any excess moisture. This helps prevent the bake from becoming too watery during cooking.
2. Sauté the Zucchini: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until they start to soften and turn slightly golden. You don’t need to fully cook them, just enough to reduce some of the moisture. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream (or milk), Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
4. Combine the Ingredients: In a greased 9×9-inch (or similar-sized) baking dish, layer the sautéed zucchini, diced ham, and the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, ensuring everything is well coated.
5. Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top of the casserole for added flavor and a golden, crispy crust.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes, but be sure to keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugars: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Casseroles like this one are a beloved dish in American cuisine, offering comfort and convenience. The combination of vegetables, protein, and cheese in a bake allows for a balanced meal that’s filling and satisfying. Ham and cheese are a classic pairing, and zucchini adds a light, fresh flavor that balances the richness of the cheese. This dish is easy to make and can be customized to suit different tastes, making it a favorite in many households.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: This recipe uses just a few ingredients and takes less than an hour to prepare and bake.
- Cheesy and Delicious: The combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a creamy, cheesy texture that’s irresistible.
- Hearty and Satisfying: The ham adds protein and flavor, making this dish a filling meal on its own.
- Great for Meal Prep: This casserole can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.
Health Benefits
- Low in Carbs: Zucchini is a low-carb vegetable, making this dish suitable for those on a low-carb or keto diet.
- High in Protein: The ham and cheese provide a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Rich in Vitamins: Zucchini is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, which support immune health and reduce inflammation.
- Calcium from Cheese: The cheese provides calcium, which is important for bone health.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Pair this cheesy bake with a light green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
- Over Rice: Serve the casserole over a bed of rice or quinoa to make it more filling.
- With Bread: Enjoy with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any leftover cheesy sauce.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts for a well-rounded meal.
Cooking Tips
- Drain the Zucchini Well: Be sure to remove excess moisture from the zucchini before baking to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
- Adjust the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like gouda, Gruyere, or provolone, for different flavors.
- Use Leftover Ham: This is a great dish for using up leftover ham from a holiday or a big meal.
Variations to Try
- Add More Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the casserole for more flavor and nutrients.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the mixture for a little heat.
- Gluten-Free Version: Make the recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or a gluten-free flour mixture if you prefer a thicker texture.
- Vegan Version: Swap out the cheese for vegan cheese and the ham for plant-based protein like tempeh or tofu to make this dish vegan.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ham and Zucchini Bake is a simple, satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight, a family dinner, or a make-ahead meal for the week. The combination of ham, zucchini, and cheese is comforting, and the dish is easy to customize to suit your preferences. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, this bake is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes.
3. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the ham with cooked chicken, turkey, or even sausage for a different flavor.
4. Can I use dairy-free cheese?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a vegan or lactose-free option.
5. Can I use zucchini with the skin on?
Yes, you can keep the zucchini skin on for added texture and nutrients, but make sure to slice it thinly for even cooking.
6. How do I prevent the casserole from being too watery?
Make sure to drain the zucchini well before assembling the casserole to remove excess moisture.
7. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or fontina for a different flavor.
8. How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.
9. Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to make the casserole more colorful and nutritious.
10. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of chili flakes or some diced jalapeños to the egg mixture for extra heat.