Cheesy Ham & Rice Recipe: Creamy and Satisfying
Creating a meal that's both comforting and convenient, simple yet satisfying, is challenging. Cheesy Ham & Rice manages to tick all these boxes.
Picture melting butter in a skillet, coating rice until it glistens, and then letting it simmer in milk. As you fold in diced ham and melt cheese into this creamy mixture, you'll see endless variations.
What truly sets this recipe apart? Its subtle details continue to delight those who try it.
Key Takeaways
- This one-pot Cheesy Ham & Rice dish is quick to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights.
- The recipe uses pantry staples, making it a budget-friendly meal option.
- Customize the dish by incorporating different cheeses or vegetables for added flavor.
- The creamy, risotto-like texture comes from simmering rice with milk and butter.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days for easy meal planning.
Recipe
Cheesy Ham and Rice is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavor of ham with the creamy richness of melted cheese and tender rice. It's an excellent choice for a comforting meal, especially on busy weeknights or when you have leftover ham that needs to be used.
The dish comes together in one pot, making it convenient and perfect for minimal cleanup. Its risotto-like texture and hearty ingredients make it satisfying for both children and adults alike.
This recipe is budget-friendly, transforming simple pantry staples into a delicious main course. The creamy cheese melds with the rice, while the ham adds a pleasant saltiness and protein, resulting in a complete meal.
The dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit personal taste preferences, such as using different types of cheese or adding vegetables. It's a meal that can be prepared quickly, yet tastes like it took much longer to make.
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
To prepare Cheesy Ham and Rice, start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the cooked white rice to the skillet and stir it to ensure all the grains are coated with butter.
Next, pour in the milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the diced ham and continue cooking for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the ham to heat through. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it's completely melted and well combined with the rice.
Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mixture reaches a creamy and smooth consistency.
For the best results, use day-old rice as it tends to absorb the creamy sauce better without becoming mushy. Sharp cheddar cheese provides more flavor impact, but you can adjust the cheese type to your liking.
If the mixture becomes too thick, simply add a splash of warm milk to achieve your desired consistency. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep or enjoying later in the week.
Cooking Steps
Get ready to create a comforting, cheesy masterpiece with these simple steps!
Start by melting butter in a skillet, letting it coat the rice fully, then pour in the milk to gently simmer together.
Introduce the diced ham with care, and as you stir in the cheese, watch it melt into a creamy delight that's sure to please.
Step 1. Melt Butter in Skillet
Why is the first step so important? Melting butter in a skillet sets the foundation for your Cheesy Ham & Rice dish, ensuring every bite is rich and flavorful.
When you melt the butter over medium heat, you're creating a luscious base that'll perfectly blend with your ingredients. The aroma of butter wafting through your kitchen immediately sets the tone for a comforting meal.
Keep an eye on the skillet, making sure the butter melts evenly without burning. This step is crucial as it helps release the butter's flavors, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
Step 2. Coat Rice With Butter
With the butter now melted in the skillet, it's time to coat the rice. Pour the cooked rice into the skillet and stir vigorously, ensuring each grain gets a lovely sheen of butter.
This step is crucial, giving your dish a rich, buttery base that enhances every bite. As you stir, notice how the rice begins to glisten, transforming into a promising foundation for the flavors to come.
The butter not only adds richness but also prevents the rice from sticking, making it easier to mix later on. Take a moment to appreciate the aroma wafting up as the butter and rice meld together, setting the stage for a comforting and delicious meal.
You're in for a treat!
Step 3. Simmer Milk With Rice
As the rice glistens in the butter, pour in the milk and watch it envelop the grains, initiating the creamy transformation. This step is where the magic begins, turning ordinary rice into a luscious base for your dish.
Keep the heat at a gentle simmer, allowing the milk to infuse into every grain, creating that delightful creamy texture you're aiming for. Stir occasionally, ensuring the rice doesn't stick to the pan.
You'll notice the milk thickening as it mingles with the butter-coated rice, enhancing its flavor and richness. This process requires patience, but the reward is a velvety, satisfying consistency.
Embrace this moment, knowing you're crafting a comforting meal that promises warmth and deliciousness in every bite.
Step 4. Incorporate Diced Ham Gently
Now's the time to add the diced ham to your creamy rice mixture. Carefully fold the ham into the bubbling pot, ensuring each piece is coated with the rich sauce.
Feel the excitement as the ham's savory aroma melds with the creamy rice, creating a symphony of flavors. Stir gently to avoid breaking the delicate rice grains, maintaining their soft texture. This step elevates your dish, offering a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Take a moment to appreciate how the ham's saltiness complements the creamy base, making each bite satisfying. As you stir, imagine the smiles on your family's faces as they savor this comforting dish.
The ham infuses the rice with warmth and heartiness, transforming simple ingredients into a memorable meal.
Step 5. Melt Cheese Into Mixture
Once the ham is nicely heated through, it's time to introduce the shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture. Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the rice and ham, and watch as it begins to melt into creamy bliss.
Stir gently but thoroughly, ensuring the cheese coats every grain of rice and every piece of ham. The key is to keep the heat low, allowing the cheese to melt slowly and evenly.
You'll soon see the mixture transform into a luscious, creamy delight that beckons to be tasted. The cheese melds beautifully with the milk and butter, creating a rich, comforting sauce.
Don't rush this step; let the magic happen. Soon enough, you'll have a mouthwatering dish that's irresistibly cheesy and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
In summary, Cheesy Ham and Rice is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table.
You'll love how this recipe combines savory ham with creamy, melted cheese and tender rice, creating an irresistible meal. It's perfect for those busy evenings when you need something quick yet satisfying.
The simplicity of the ingredients makes it budget-friendly, and it's a great way to make use of leftover ham.
Don't hesitate to experiment with the cheese, adjusting it to your taste for the best flavor. The creamy, risotto-like texture is sure to impress, leaving everyone asking for seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely, you can use brown rice instead of white rice!
It'll add a nutty flavor and extra fiber to your dish. Just remember, brown rice takes a bit longer to cook, so you'll need to plan for that.
Make sure it's fully cooked before starting the recipe. The chewy texture pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese and savory ham, creating a delicious, hearty meal everyone will love.
Give it a try!
What Can I Substitute for Ham if I'm Vegetarian?
You're in luck! For a vegetarian twist, you can substitute cubed tofu or tempeh for the ham.
Both options bring a delightful texture and soak up the creamy cheese sauce beautifully. Just sauté them in butter before adding to your dish for extra flavor.
Mushrooms are another great choice, adding an umami kick.
Experiment with your favorites, and you'll create a satisfying, meat-free version of this cozy meal!
How Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Did you know adding just one cup of spinach boosts your dish with 181% of your recommended daily vitamin K?
It's easy to pack in veggies—toss in some chopped bell peppers, broccoli, or peas. They'll add color, crunch, and nutrients.
Just sauté them briefly before adding to your rice mix. This not only enhances flavor but also makes your meal more balanced.
Get creative, and enjoy a vibrant, veggie-packed feast!
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely, you can make this recipe dairy-free and still enjoy its deliciousness!
Use plant-based milk like almond or oat for creaminess. Swap butter with a vegan alternative, and choose a dairy-free cheese that melts well, such as a coconut or cashew-based cheddar.
You'll still achieve that creamy, satisfying texture. Experiment with these substitutions, and you'll create a comforting dish that's perfect for everyone, even without the dairy!
What Other Cheeses Can Be Used for Different Flavors?
Imagine your taste buds dancing as you explore new cheese variations!
Swap cheddar for mozzarella for a mild, creamy twist, or try gouda for a smoky depth. If you're feeling adventurous, blend in some pepper jack to add a spicy kick.
Each cheese brings its unique personality to the dish, transforming the familiar comfort of ham and rice into an exciting culinary adventure.
Let your creativity guide you and discover your perfect flavor match!
