Oh my goodness, let’s talk about comfort food, shall we? One of my all-time favorites is the Ham and Broccoli Tater Tot Casserole. You know, there’s just something inherently cozy about a dish that combines tater tots – yes, the beloved crispy little droplets of potato joy – with ham and broccoli. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, and believe me, on those chilly evenings after a long day, it’s a lifesaver.
This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also a shortcut to nostalgia! I remember my mom whipping up a similar casserole back when I was a kid, and I would help her arrange the tater tots on top like a little artist creating a masterpiece. The best part? The whole house would smell like heaven as it baked in the oven. Now, every time I make it, I’m taken back to those family dinners filled with love and laughter. Now let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what makes this casserole so special and how you can recreate it in your kitchen!
What’s in Ham and Broccoli Tater Tot Casserole?
Cooked Ham: Diced ham is the star of this dish! It adds that lovely savory flavor, and using leftovers means this casserole can be a great way to minimize waste. I usually opt for a smoked or honey-baked ham for an extra layer of flavor.
Frozen Broccoli Florets: These little green trees are packed with nutrients and help balance out the dish. Frozen broccoli is super convenient, making this dish easy and quick to prep. They’ll cook perfectly in the oven and keep their bright color.
Cream of Broccoli Soup: This is the creamy base of our casserole and really ties all the ingredients together. It keeps everything moist and adds a delicious broccoli flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try making your own cream soup!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Because everything is better with cheese, right? You can’t go wrong with sharp cheddar for that deliciously gooey, melty goodness. I often go for a mix of sharp and mild for a more complex flavor.
Milk: A splash of milk helps loosen up the texture of our mixture, making it creamy and smooth. I usually use whole milk, but feel free to substitute with your preferred milk.
Garlic Powder: A must to elevate the flavors. It provides an aromatic kick without overpowering the dish.
Onion Powder: Just like garlic powder, onion powder brings a depth of flavor, adding to the savory base of our casserole.
Black Pepper: A sprinkle of this brings just the right amount of seasoning to tie everything together.
Frozen Tater Tots: Last but certainly not least, the crown jewel of our casserole! These crispy treats create the perfect topping that becomes golden brown and crunchy in the oven.
Is Ham and Broccoli Tater Tot Casserole Good for You?
Let’s chat about the health benefits here.
Broccoli: This superstar veggie is full of vitamins K and C, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s good for your immune system and digestion. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some greens into your meal!
Ham: While ham offers a healthy dose of protein, it’s important to consider moderation because it can be high in sodium and preservatives. Look for healthier, lower-sodium options when you can.
Cheese: Yes, it’s creamy and delicious, but cheese can be high in fat and calories, so I like to use it sparingly. Go for a strong-flavored cheese so you don’t need too much.
Overall, this can be a wholesome meal when enjoyed in moderation, particularly if you focus on adding extra veggies or serving it alongside a crisp salad.
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups frozen broccoli florets
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of broccoli soup
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
*Serves 6-8 people*
How to Make Ham and Broccoli Tater Tot Casserole?
1. First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in the diced ham, frozen broccoli, cream of broccoli soup, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix it all up until everything is beautifully combined.
3. Pour your ham and broccoli mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Give it a little spread to make sure it’s even.
4. Load up all those frozen tater tots on top of the mixture. I like to arrange them nicely like they’re in a little potato parade!
5. Pop the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for those tater tots to become golden brown and crispy.
6. Once it’s out of the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Patience is a virtue, after all!
Sweet Serving Suggestions
If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, consider a few variations! You can toss in some diced bell peppers or even swap the ham for chicken or turkey. Add spices like paprika or even some crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat! For a heartier dish, serve it alongside a light salad drizzled with vinaigrette or perhaps some homemade garlic bread.
I absolutely encourage you to give this Ham and Broccoli Tater Tot Casserole a shot! It’s an uncomplicated dish that packs a punch in flavor and comfort. Trust me, you’ll find yourself going back for seconds… and maybe thirds! When you try it, be sure to let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking, my friends!
