Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort: 1 Hug in a Dish

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Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort has been my go-to weeknight meal for years, especially when I have leftover ham. I remember the first time I made this ham and pea casserole; the aroma of melted cheese and savory ham filled my kitchen, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. The creamy, dreamy cheddar sauce coating tender bites of ham and sweet peas, all nestled with fluffy rice, is pure bliss. It’s the kind of meal that hugs you from the inside out. Ready to create some delicious comfort? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a baking dish. Here’s why it’s quickly become a favorite:

Incredibly Easy: Minimal prep means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
Uses Leftovers: The perfect way to transform leftover ham into something spectacular.
Pure Comfort Food: It’s the ultimate cozy dish, guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out.
Crowd-Pleaser: This cheesy rice casserole is a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Quick Weeknight Dinner: Ready in under an hour, it’s ideal for busy evenings.
Versatile: Easily adaptable to what you have on hand.
Hearty and Satisfying: A complete meal that feels special enough for a family dinner.

Ingredients for Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making this delicious cheesy rice casserole. They come together to create a truly comforting meal.

3 cups cooked rice – day-old rice works best as it holds its shape
2 cups cubed ham – about 10 ounces, leftover ham is perfect here
1½ cups frozen green peas – no need to thaw
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – this forms the creamy base
1 cup sour cream – adds tanginess and extra creaminess
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided – we’ll use 2 cups in the sauce and 1 cup for the topping
1 teaspoon onion powder – for a savory depth
½ teaspoon garlic powder – adds a hint of garlic flavor
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – season as you go
1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional) – for a little kick
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional topping) – adds a delightful crunch
1 tablespoon melted butter (optional topping) – helps toast the breadcrumbs

How to Make Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

This comforting casserole comes together surprisingly quickly, making it a fantastic option for any night of the week. You’ll be amazed at how a few simple steps can result in such a delicious meal, especially when you’re working with a great leftover ham recipe.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so nothing sticks. The smell of the oven warming up is the first sign that deliciousness is on its way!
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the 3 cups cooked rice, 2 cups cubed ham, and 1½ cups frozen green peas. Give it a quick stir to distribute the ingredients evenly.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, 1 cup sour cream, 2 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, stir in 1–2 teaspoons of hot sauce now. This sauce is what makes this Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort so wonderfully creamy.
Step 4: Pour the luscious sauce mixture over the rice, ham, and pea combination. Stir gently, ensuring every bite is coated in that cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it bakes up uniformly.
Step 6: For that irresistible golden crust, combine the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese with the optional ½ cup breadcrumbs and 1 tablespoon melted butter. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole. This step really elevates your leftover ham recipe.
Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is hot, bubbly around the edges, and the topping is beautifully golden brown and melted. The aroma filling your kitchen will be incredible!
Step 8: Let the Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

Want to elevate your casserole game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that guarantee a perfect Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort every time. These simple tips make a big difference!

Use day-old rice! Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and make the casserole mushy, but leftover rice holds its shape beautifully.
Don’t skip the sour cream; it adds a wonderful tang that cuts through the richness of the cheese and soup.
For an extra cheesy topping, mix a little Parmesan cheese in with your cheddar and breadcrumbs.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort?

The secret is in the balance! Using day-old rice prevents sogginess, and the combination of cream of chicken soup and sour cream creates a luxurious sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food hug.

Can I make Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole (without the topping) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort?

Make sure your rice isn’t too wet; pat it dry if needed. Also, don’t overmix the casserole after adding the sauce, as this can make it dense. Finally, let it rest for a few minutes after baking so it holds its shape when served.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

This hearty casserole is a meal in itself, but it truly shines when paired with a few simple sides for a complete family dinner experience. Its comforting nature makes it perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight meal to a more festive gathering.

Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with your favorite vinaigrette. The freshness cuts through the richness beautifully.
A side of steamed broccoli or green beans adds a healthy boost and a lovely pop of color to the plate.
For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a slice of crusty bread for soaking up any extra cheesy sauce – though it’s so good, you might not need it!

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional content for this delicious Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort casserole, per serving. This comforting dish offers a good balance of protein and carbohydrates.

Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
Fat: Approximately 25g
Saturated Fat: Approximately 15g
Protein: Approximately 20g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 35g
Fiber: Approximately 3g
Sugar: Approximately 5g
Sodium: Approximately 1200mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

This Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort casserole is a fantastic leftover ham recipe because it stores and reheats beautifully. Once your delicious casserole has cooled down completely – this is important to prevent condensation and spoilage – transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can store the casserole in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you need to keep it longer, it freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating is simple! For refrigerated leftovers, you can gently warm individual portions in the microwave for a minute or two, or reheat the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first. If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat directly from frozen in a 325°F (160°C) oven, but it will take longer, potentially 40-50 minutes, so keep an eye on it!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

Can I substitute the ham in this ham and pea casserole?

Absolutely! While ham is classic, you can easily swap it out. Cooked chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian option like extra-firm tofu or chickpeas would work wonderfully. Just ensure they are cooked and cubed before adding them to the casserole mixture.

What kind of rice is best for Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort?

I’ve found that medium or long-grain white rice works best. Day-old cooked rice is ideal because it’s drier and won’t make the casserole watery. Brown rice can also be used, but be sure it’s fully cooked and has cooled down.

Can I make this Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort dairy-free?

Yes, you can adapt this ham and pea casserole to be dairy-free! Use a dairy-free cheddar-style cheese alternative, a plant-based sour cream substitute, and a dairy-free cream of chicken soup alternative. For the topping, use dairy-free butter and omit the cheese, or use a dairy-free shredded cheese.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this comfort food?

This casserole is quite hearty on its own, but a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is always a great choice. Steamed green beans or a side of crusty bread also pair wonderfully, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

Variations of Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort You Can Try

While this classic Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort is already a winner, don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on this beloved comfort food! Here are a few ideas to inspire your next casserole adventure:

Spicy Fiesta Comfort: Add a can of drained diced green chilies and a teaspoon of chili powder to the sauce mixture. Top with Monterey Jack cheese and crushed tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex twist.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap the ham for a can of drained chickpeas or a cup of sautéed mushrooms and extra-firm tofu. It’s a satisfying vegetarian take on this classic dish.
Low-Carb Version: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice that has been lightly steamed and squeezed dry. This significantly reduces the carbohydrate count while keeping the cheesy goodness intact.
Smoked Sausage Swap: Instead of ham, use cubed smoked sausage like kielbasa. It adds a different, but equally delicious, smoky depth to the casserole.