### Golden Crusted Ham and Cheese Bake
#### **Introduction**
Golden Crusted Ham and Cheese Bake is a comforting, rich, and indulgent dish that combines savory ham, melted cheese, and a golden, crispy topping. It’s the perfect casserole to serve as a main course for a family dinner or as a special dish during festive occasions. The combination of tender ham, gooey cheese, and a crispy, golden crust is sure to please both kids and adults alike. This dish balances indulgence and satisfaction while providing a hearty, comforting meal.
#### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
The roots of the ham and cheese casserole can be traced back to European and American home-cooked meals, particularly in regions where hearty, simple comfort food is cherished. Similar versions of ham and cheese bakes have been enjoyed in various cultures, often as a way to utilize leftover ham and provide a filling meal. It embodies the essence of home cooking—using a few basic ingredients to create a dish that is both delicious and satisfying. Over the years, recipes have evolved to include variations with different cheeses, meats, and toppings, making it a versatile dish in many households.
#### **Cultural Significance**
In American culture, the ham and cheese bake is commonly associated with holiday meals and gatherings, especially around Easter, Christmas, and Thanksgiving when ham is a popular centerpiece. It also serves as a practical and comforting way to repurpose leftover holiday ham, offering a way to prolong the enjoyment of a festive meal while minimizing food waste. In other cultures, variations of this dish are often enjoyed as a warm and comforting family meal.
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### **Ingredients and Quantity**
* **For the Bake:**
– 3 cups cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup bread crumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* **Optional Additions:**
– 1/2 cup chopped green onions
– 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
– 1/2 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for added flavor
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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### **Tips for Success**
1. **Use Quality Ham**: For the best flavor, use high-quality, freshly cooked ham. Leftover ham from a roast or holiday meal works perfectly.
2. **Choose the Right Cheese**: Opt for a cheese that melts well, like cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère. A blend of different cheeses can provide extra depth of flavor.
3. **Don’t Overcook**: Be careful not to overcook the bake. Once the top is golden and the cheese is bubbling, it’s done.
4. **Crispy Topping**: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy, crunchy topping. For added richness, toss the breadcrumbs in a little melted butter before sprinkling on top.
5. **Customize the Vegetables**: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas for extra nutrition and flavor.
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### **Instructions**
1. **Preheat** your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. **Prepare the Sauce**: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
3. **Assemble the Bake**: Add the diced ham and shredded cheese to the bowl with the sauce, mixing to combine. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. **Make the Crust**: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. **Bake**: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. If desired, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve a crispier top.
6. **Serve**: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
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### **Description**
Golden Crusted Ham and Cheese Bake is a creamy, cheesy dish that features chunks of savory ham enveloped in a rich, tangy sauce made from sour cream and mayonnaise. The baked topping is golden and crisp, thanks to the combination of breadcrumbs and melted butter. Each bite offers a combination of textures—from the smooth, creamy filling to the crispy, golden crust. The dish is both filling and flavorful, making it the perfect meal for a cozy night in or a celebratory gathering.
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### **Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)**
– Calories: 380
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 4g
– Fat: 25g
– Saturated Fat: 10g
– Cholesterol: 50mg
– Sodium: 700mg
– Calcium: 300mg
– Iron: 2mg
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient variations.)
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### **Conclusion**
Golden Crusted Ham and Cheese Bake is a perfect balance of savory, cheesy indulgence and comforting, home-cooked goodness. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or holiday feasts. Whether you’re using leftover ham or preparing it fresh, the golden crust and creamy filling will surely satisfy your taste buds.
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### **Recommendation and Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
While this dish is undeniably indulgent, you can make small adjustments to lighten it up without compromising on flavor. For example, using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, opting for lower-fat cheese, and adding in more vegetables like spinach or zucchini can reduce calories and increase nutritional value. Embrace the comfort of this dish as part of a balanced lifestyle, enjoying it as a special treat that brings family and friends together. By making simple substitutions or additions, you can make Golden Crusted Ham and Cheese Bake both a delicious and health-conscious option.