Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole

Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken ham with nutritious broccoli and creamy cheese. This low-carb casserole is perfect for busy weeknight dinners, allowing you to utilize leftover chicken ham effortlessly. With just five ingredients, it’s an easy recipe everyone will love, making it suitable for family meals or casual gatherings. Plus, each serving has only 5.1g net carbs, making it a great choice for those on a keto diet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This casserole can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Minimal Ingredients: With only five simple ingredients required, it’s easy to whip up without a long shopping list.
• Deliciously Creamy: The blend of cream cheese and cheddar cheese creates a rich and satisfying flavor that everyone enjoys.
• Low Carb Goodness: Enjoy the benefits of a low-carb meal that doesn’t skimp on taste—great for keto dieters!
• Versatile Meal Option: Use leftover chicken ham or even swap in different vegetables based on what you have at home.

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Tools and Preparation

To ensure your Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole turns out perfectly, having the right tools is essential. Preparing the ingredients and cooking the casserole will be streamlined with these handy kitchen items.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick cooking spray
• Baking or casserole dish
• Steamer pot or pot for boiling
• High-speed blender

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick cooking spray: Prevents the casserole from sticking to the dish, making cleanup easier.
• Baking or casserole dish: Provides an ideal space to combine all ingredients and bake evenly.
• High-speed blender: Ensures your sauce is smooth and creamy, giving the casserole its delicious texture.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 8 oz chicken ham, cooked and diced
• 2 cups broccoli, chopped and steamed
• 2 cup cauliflower, chopped and steamed
• 1 oz cream cheese
• 1 1/4 cup cheddar, divided into 1/2 cup and 3/4 cup

How to Make Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Prepare your baking or casserole dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Steam Vegetables

Chop and steam both the broccoli and cauliflower separately. You can use a microwave steamer pot, boil them in water, or even use frozen vegetables. Make sure to drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery casserole.

Step 3: Blend Sauce

Add the cooked cauliflower, cream cheese, and 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese into a high-speed blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. If too thick, add one or two tablespoons of water until you achieve a thick yet creamy consistency.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In your prepared baking pan, add the chicken ham and steamed broccoli. Mix in the creamy sauce until everything is well-coated. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the top is nicely browned.

Enjoy your delicious Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole!

How to Serve Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole

Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons add texture and flavor, balancing the casserole’s creaminess.

Add a Low Carb Bread

• Almond Flour Bread: This bread is low in carbs and perfect for scooping up the casserole while adding a nutty flavor.
• Cloud Bread: Light and airy, cloud bread provides a great alternative that won’t interfere with your keto goals.

Serve with a Side of Vegetables

• Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sauté spinach in olive oil with garlic for a nutritious side that’s easy to prepare.
• Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil, season with salt, and roast for a crispy side that pairs well with the casserole.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for added freshness and color.
• Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions offer a mild onion flavor and vibrant green touch.

How to Perfect Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole

To ensure your Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Boldly steam vegetables: Properly steaming broccoli and cauliflower ensures they retain their texture without making the casserole watery.
• Boldly blend ingredients: Blending the cream cheese with cauliflower until smooth creates a rich sauce that ties all the flavors together.
• Boldly monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the casserole while baking; it should be golden brown on top but not overcooked.
• Boldly use fresh ingredients: Using fresh chicken ham instead of processed varieties enhances flavor and nutritional value.

Best Side Dishes for Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole

When enjoying your Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles are a fantastic low-carb alternative to pasta.
2. Garlic Butter Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms in garlic butter add an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the casserole.
3. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage offers crunch and acidity to balance the dish’s richness.
4. Radish Fries: These low-carb fries provide a crunchy side that’s easy to prepare; just roast radishes until crispy.
5. Cauliflower Rice: Fluffy cauliflower rice is an excellent base that absorbs flavors well while keeping calories low.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with ground meat or cheese make for an aromatic and visually appealing side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole can be quick and easy, but there are a few mistakes that can affect the outcome of your dish.

• Not draining excess liquid: If you don’t drain the broccoli and cauliflower well, your casserole may end up watery. Ensure you remove as much moisture as possible before mixing.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can cause the casserole to cook unevenly. Allow your cream cheese and other refrigerated items to reach room temperature before mixing.
• Overbaking the casserole: Baking it too long can lead to a dry texture. Keep an eye on it, and aim for a golden brown topping after 15-20 minutes.
• Skipping seasoning: While the cheese adds flavor, not seasoning your casserole can make it bland. Consider adding herbs or spices to enhance taste.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality or old ingredients can diminish flavor. Always choose fresh chicken ham and broccoli for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date for tracking.

Reheating Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about the Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole, here are some common questions that might help.

What is a Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole?

Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole is a low-carb dish made with chicken ham, broccoli, cauliflower, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for quick weeknight meals.

Can I use frozen broccoli in this casserole?

Yes! Frozen broccoli works well. Just ensure it’s thawed and drained before adding it to the mix.

How do I customize my Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole?

Feel free to add different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. You could also try varying cheeses for added flavor!

Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it ideal for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Keto Ham and Broccoli Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe allows room for creativity with your favorite ingredients. Don’t hesitate to customize it based on what you have on hand. Enjoy warm comfort food that satisfies your cravings while keeping it low-carb!