Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort: Delicious 30-Min Meal

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Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort has been a staple in my home for years, especially on those busy weeknights when I need a meal that’s both incredibly satisfying and easy to whip up. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of melted cheddar and savory ham filled my kitchen, promising a truly comforting experience. My kids, who can be picky eaters, devoured it instantly, and I knew I’d found a winner. This dish is more than just a casserole; it’s a warm hug in a baking dish, perfect for family dinners. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

Get ready to fall in love with this incredibly easy and delicious casserole. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will adore.

Effortless preparation: With simple steps and minimal prep, you can have this dish ready for the oven in no time.
Crowd-pleasing flavor: The combination of savory ham, sweet peas, creamy cheddar sauce, and tender rice is pure comfort food magic.
Quick assembly: You’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your loved ones.
Versatile serving: This dish is fantastic on its own or as a side, making it a go-to for any meal.
Perfect for meal prep: The ingredients for arepas are straightforward, and this casserole is no exception, making it ideal for busy schedules.
Satisfyingly cheesy: Loads of sharp cheddar cheese ensure a gooey, delicious bite every time.
Adaptable recipe: Easily customize it with your favorite additions or by adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste.
A true comfort food: It’s the kind of dish that warms you up from the inside out.

Ingredients for Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

Here’s what you need for this delicious and easy casserole. Gathering these simple components is the first step to making your own homemade arepas-style dish.

3 cups cooked rice – leftover rice is perfect here and adds great texture
2 cups cubed ham – about ½ inch cubes, use leftover holiday ham or deli ham
1½ cups frozen green peas – no need to thaw, they cook right in the casserole
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – this forms the rich base of our creamy sauce
1 cup sour cream – for extra creaminess and a slight tang, full-fat is best for consistency
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided – sharp cheddar provides a robust flavor; we’ll use 2 cups mixed in and 1 cup for the topping
1 teaspoon onion powder – adds a savory depth without diced onion
½ teaspoon garlic powder – for that essential aromatic flavor
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – season as needed, especially if your ham is salty
1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional) – a little kick can really enhance the other flavors
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional topping) – panko breadcrumbs give the best crunch
1 tablespoon melted butter (optional topping) – to help toast the breadcrumbs and add richness

How to Make Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

Step 1: Let’s get this comforting casserole started by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a quick grease so nothing sticks. This simple step ensures your Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort comes out beautifully browned.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the 3 cups cooked rice, 2 cups cubed ham, and 1½ cups frozen green peas. I love using leftover rice for this; it’s already perfectly textured and ready to go.
Step 3: Now for the creamy magic! Add the 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, 1 cup sour cream, 2 cups of your 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, a pinch of salt and pepper, and if you’re feeling it, 1–2 teaspoons of hot sauce.
Step 4: Gently stir everything together until it’s all beautifully combined. You want to make sure every bit of rice and ham is coated in that luscious, cheesy sauce. This mixture is the heart of your Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort, and it smells amazing already!
Step 5: Pour this wonderful mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Smooth it out so you have a nice, even layer.
Step 6: If you’re adding a crunchy topping, mix the ½ cup breadcrumbs with the 1 tablespoon melted butter in a small bowl. This is a fantastic way to elevate your simple arepas dough ingredients into something truly special.
Step 7: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the casserole. Then, top with the buttered breadcrumbs (if using). This golden crust adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy interior.
Step 8: Bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it – you’re looking for the edges to be bubbly and the topping to be a lovely golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will tell you it’s almost ready!
Step 9: Once out of the oven, let your delicious Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the casserole to set up slightly, making it easier to serve and ensuring every bite is perfect.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

Get ready to fall in love with this incredibly easy and delicious casserole. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will adore, and it comes together with such simple ingredients that are essential for making arepas.

Effortless preparation: With simple steps and minimal prep, you can have this dish ready for the oven in no time.
Crowd-pleasing flavor: The combination of savory ham, sweet peas, creamy cheddar sauce, and tender rice is pure comfort food magic.
Quick assembly: You’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your loved ones.
Versatile serving: This dish is fantastic on its own or as a side, making it a go-to for any meal.
Perfect for meal prep: The ingredients for arepas are straightforward, and this casserole is no exception, making it ideal for busy schedules.
Satisfyingly cheesy: Loads of sharp cheddar cheese ensure a gooey, delicious bite every time.
Adaptable recipe: Easily customize it with your favorite additions or by adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste.
A true comfort food: It’s the kind of dish that warms you up from the inside out.

Ingredients for Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

Gathering the right components is the first step to making this delicious and easy casserole, much like preparing the essential arepas ingredients for traditional Venezuelan arepas. These simple items come together to create a truly comforting dish.

3 cups cooked rice – leftover rice is perfect here and adds great texture
2 cups cubed ham – about ½ inch cubes, use leftover holiday ham or deli ham
1½ cups frozen green peas – no need to thaw, they cook right in the casserole
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – this forms the rich base of our creamy sauce
1 cup sour cream – for extra creaminess and a slight tang, full-fat is best for consistency
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided – sharp cheddar provides a robust flavor; we’ll use 2 cups mixed in and 1 cup for the topping
1 teaspoon onion powder – adds a savory depth without diced onion
½ teaspoon garlic powder – for that essential aromatic flavor
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – season as needed, especially if your ham is salty
1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional) – a little kick can really enhance the other flavors
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional topping) – panko breadcrumbs give the best crunch
1 tablespoon melted butter (optional topping) – to help toast the breadcrumbs and add richness

How to Make Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

Step 1: Let’s get this comforting casserole started by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a quick grease so nothing sticks. This simple step ensures your Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort comes out beautifully browned, much like the start of preparing ingredients to make Venezuelan arepas.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the 3 cups cooked rice, 2 cups cubed ham, and 1½ cups frozen green peas. I love using leftover rice for this; it’s already perfectly textured and ready to go, forming the base for our delicious meal.
Step 3: Now for the creamy magic! Add the 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, 1 cup sour cream, 2 cups of your 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, a pinch of salt and pepper, and if you’re feeling it, 1–2 teaspoons of hot sauce.
Step 4: Gently stir everything together until it’s all beautifully combined. You want to make sure every bit of rice and ham is coated in that luscious, cheesy sauce. This mixture is the heart of your Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort, and it smells amazing already!
Step 5: Pour this wonderful mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Smooth it out so you have a nice, even layer, ready for its cheesy crown.
Step 6: If you’re adding a crunchy topping, mix the ½ cup breadcrumbs with the 1 tablespoon melted butter in a small bowl. This is a fantastic way to elevate your simple arepas dough ingredients into something truly special.
Step 7: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the casserole. Then, top with the buttered breadcrumbs (if using). This golden crust adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy interior, making the final dish even more appealing.
Step 8: Bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it – you’re looking for the edges to be bubbly and the topping to be a lovely golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will tell you it’s almost ready to serve!
Step 9: Once out of the oven, let your delicious Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the casserole to set up slightly, making it easier to serve and ensuring every bite is perfect, much like letting arepas rest before stuffing.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

Want to elevate your casserole game? These little tricks will ensure your Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort is always a hit, just like mastering the best ingredients for making arepas.

Use day-old cooked rice for the best texture; it holds its shape better than freshly cooked rice.
Don’t skip shredding your own cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can make your sauce less smooth.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream of chicken soup mixture.
Ensure your ham is cut into relatively uniform cubes so it cooks evenly throughout the casserole.

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

The secret lies in building layers of flavor and texture. Using good quality sharp cheddar, ensuring your rice isn’t mushy, and creating that optional crunchy breadcrumb topping are key to a stand-out Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort.

Can I make Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole (up to the baking step) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

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

A common pitfall is using too much liquid, which can make the casserole watery. Also, avoid overmixing the ingredients, as this can make the rice break down. Ensure you preheat your oven properly for even cooking. For more tips on baking, check out this guide on baking techniques.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

This hearty casserole is a meal in itself, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to round out your dinner. Think of it as the perfect base, much like the versatility of arepas dough ingredients that can be filled or served plain. It’s a comforting dish that brings everyone to the table.

Serve it as a main course: On its own, Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort is incredibly satisfying. The combination of rice, ham, peas, and creamy cheese ensures a filling and delicious meal that even picky eaters will love.
Pair with a fresh salad: A crisp, green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. It’s a classic pairing that balances the flavors beautifully.
Accompany with crusty bread: For soaking up any extra cheesy goodness, a side of warm, crusty bread is always a winner. It’s a simple addition that makes the meal even more comforting.

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

Here’s a general idea of what you can expect in a serving of this delicious Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort. Remember, these are estimates and your actual values will depend on the specific ingredients you use, much like how the final nutritional profile of arepas can vary based on fillings.

Calories: 450-500
Fat: 25-30g
Saturated Fat: 12-15g
Protein: 20-25g
Carbohydrates: 35-40g
Fiber: 3-5g
Sugar: 5-7g
Sodium: 900-1100mg (can vary greatly based on ham and soup)

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

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

Leftovers of this delicious Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort are a treat! Properly storing and reheating ensures you can enjoy this comforting dish for days to come. Think of it like storing your homemade arepas dough ingredients for later use; preparation is key.

Once your Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort has cooled down slightly (about 30 minutes after baking), portion it into airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, or place in freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply remove from the freezer and thaw overnight in the refrigerator. For smaller portions, microwave on medium power until heated through, stirring halfway. For larger portions or a crispier topping, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through. This makes enjoying your Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort leftovers a breeze!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort

Can I use different types of ham in this Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort recipe?

Absolutely! While cubed ham works wonderfully, you can also use leftover holiday ham, diced smoked ham, or even deli ham. Just make sure it’s cut into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly within the casserole, similar to how you’d prepare ingredients for stuffed arepas.

What are the best ingredients for making arepas that can be compared to this casserole?

When thinking about the best ingredients for making arepas, you’ll find similarities in the use of simple, wholesome components. For our Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort, the cooked rice, ham, peas, and cheddar cheese create a rich, satisfying blend that’s comforting, much like the cornmeal, water, and salt that form the base of traditional arepas dough ingredients.

Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of this Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort?

Yes, you can easily make this vegetarian! Simply omit the ham and consider adding extra vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, broccoli florets, or corn. You might also want to use a vegetarian cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken for a delicious meat-free alternative.

What is the best way to store leftover Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort?

After cooling, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This ensures the casserole stays fresh, much like how proper storage of pre-cooked corn flour for arepas keeps it ready for your next meal.

Variations of Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort You Can Try

This Cheesy Ham Pea Comfort recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to create delicious variations that suit your taste or dietary needs. Just like how the core ingredients for arepas can be modified, you can easily switch things up here!

Vegetarian Delight: Omit the ham and add in sautéed mushrooms, broccoli florets, or extra peas. For a heartier base, consider using cooked quinoa instead of rice. This makes for a satisfying meat-free meal, akin to preparing the essential arepas ingredients for a lighter dish.
Spicy Fiesta: Amp up the heat by adding a can of diced jalapeños along with the peas, or stir in a bit more hot sauce. You could even top it with Monterey Jack cheese for an extra cheesy, slightly spicier kick.
Creamy Chicken Casserole: Swap the ham for cooked, shredded chicken. This is a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken and creates a flavor profile very similar to a classic chicken casserole, using the same techniques as making the best ingredients for making arepas.
Slow Cooker Simplicity: For an even easier approach, combine all the ingredients (except the optional breadcrumb topping) in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Sprinkle cheese and breadcrumbs on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking.