Introduction: Can a Casserole Be Creamy, Protein-Packed, and Family-Friendly?
Craving a hearty, comforting dish that’s loaded with protein and veggies? Broccoli Cheddar Ham Pasta Casserole combines tender broccoli, savory ham, protein-packed pasta, and a creamy cheddar-cottage cheese sauce for a delicious, wholesome meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd, this casserole is easy to make and sure to please. Ready to bake a dish of cozy goodness? Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe!
Overview: Why Broccoli Cheddar Ham Pasta Casserole Is a Crowd-Pleaser
Broccoli Cheddar Ham Pasta Casserole is loved for its creamy texture, bold flavors, and balanced nutrition, making it a perfect all-in-one meal. Here’s what makes it special:
- Time Requirement: About 15 minutes to prep, 25-30 minutes to cook and bake.
- Difficulty Level: Easy—requires basic roasting, boiling, blending, and baking, ideal for beginners.
- Why It’s Special: Low-fat cottage cheese and protein pasta boost protein, while broccoli adds nutrition and cheddar brings rich, cheesy flavor. This recipe yields 6-8 servings, perfect for a family or meal prep.
Ideal for cozy dinners, potlucks, or freezer meals, this casserole is sure to become a favorite.
Essential Ingredients
Broccoli Cheddar Ham Pasta Casserole uses simple ingredients to create a creamy, hearty dish. Here’s what you’ll need for 6-8 servings:
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen): Adds vibrant color and nutrition.
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil: For roasting broccoli.
- 12 ounces diced ham: Provides savory, protein-rich flavor.
- 12 ounces protein pasta: Boosts protein content (e.g., chickpea, lentil, or edamame pasta).
- 16 ounces low-fat cottage cheese: Creates a creamy, protein-packed sauce.
- ⅔ cup milk: Thins the sauce for a smooth consistency.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances overall flavors.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a mild kick.
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic: Brings savory depth.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Adds rich, cheesy flavor.
- ¼ cup pasta water: Helps thicken and bind the sauce.
- Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping): Adds a crunchy texture.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Cottage Cheese: Provides a creamy, high-protein base without heavy cream.
- Protein Pasta: Increases protein, making the dish more filling.
- Broccoli and Ham: Add nutrition and hearty, savory flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: Delivers melty, cheesy goodness and a golden topping.
Substitutions and Variations
- Broccoli: Swap with cauliflower, zucchini, or green beans for different veggies.
- Ham: Replace with diced turkey, cooked chicken, bacon, or omit for a vegetarian option (add extra veggies or beans for protein).
- Protein Pasta: Use whole wheat pasta, regular pasta, or gluten-free pasta.
- Cottage Cheese: Substitute with full-fat cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, or plant-based cream cheese for a vegan option.
- Milk: Use any milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, oat, or soy) or more pasta water for a lighter sauce.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based pasta, vegan cottage cheese or cream cheese, non-dairy milk, vegan cheddar, and omit ham or use plant-based protein.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free protein pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Spicy Casserole: Add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes or cayenne to the sauce.
- Cheesy Boost: Increase cheddar to 2 cups or add ¼ cup shredded mozzarella.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Broccoli Cheddar Ham Pasta Casserole is a simple process that yields a creamy, flavorful result. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather all ingredients: 3 cups broccoli florets, 1 tablespoon avocado oil, 12 ounces diced ham, 12 ounces protein pasta, 16 ounces low-fat cottage cheese, ⅔ cup milk, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, ½ tablespoon minced garlic, 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, ¼ cup pasta water, and breadcrumbs (optional).
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
- If using fresh broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets.
Tip: Use low-fat cottage cheese for a lighter dish; full-fat adds extra creaminess.
Step 2: Roast Broccoli
- Place 3 cups broccoli florets on a sheet pan.
- Drizzle with 1 tablespoon avocado oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
- Toss to coat and roast at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, until tender and slightly charred.
- Remove broccoli from the oven and lower the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C).
Tip: Spread broccoli in a single layer for even roasting; frozen broccoli may need 2-3 extra minutes.
Step 3: Cook Pasta
- Cook 12 ounces protein pasta according to package directions in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente (typically 7-10 minutes, depending on pasta type).
- Before draining, reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Tip: Undercook pasta slightly as it will cook further in the oven; reserve pasta water for a silky sauce.
Step 4: Make Creamy Sauce
- In a blender, combine 16 ounces low-fat cottage cheese, ⅔ cup milk, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and ½ tablespoon minced garlic.
- Blend until smooth, about 30-60 seconds, ensuring no cottage cheese curds remain.
- Pour the blended sauce into a large non-stick skillet and warm over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tip: Blend thoroughly for a smooth sauce; warm gently to avoid curdling.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
- Add the reserved ¼ cup pasta water and ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce.
- Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to coat.
- Turn off the heat and continue stirring for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the pasta. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.
- Stir in the roasted broccoli and 12 ounces diced ham.
Tip: Stir gently to avoid breaking the pasta; ensure broccoli and ham are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Top with the remaining ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs, if using.
- Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tip: For a golden top, broil for 1-2 minutes on low, watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 7: Serve
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes to set.
- Slice or scoop into 6-8 portions and serve warm.
Tip: Serve immediately for the best texture; garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Ham Pasta Casserole
Making Broccoli Cheddar Ham Pasta Casserole is all about creating a creamy, hearty dish with balanced flavors. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Broccoli: Roast for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Sauce: Blend cottage cheese for a smooth, protein-packed base; add cheddar for richness.
- Pasta and Ham: Combine with broccoli for a cohesive, hearty mix.
- Presentation: Top with cheese and breadcrumbs for a golden, crunchy finish.
Presentation Tips
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheddar for a vibrant look.
- Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Present in the casserole dish or plated for a cozy, family-style meal.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Broccoli Cheddar Ham Pasta Casserole is perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
- Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave (1-2 minutes per serving) or oven (350°F/177°C for 15-20 minutes, covered).
- Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container; thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as directed.
- Make-Ahead:
- Roast broccoli and cook pasta up to 2 days ahead; store separately in the fridge.
- Prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate.
- Assemble the casserole (unbaked) up to 1 day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate; bake as directed.
- Freeze unbaked casserole for quick future meals; bake from frozen, adding 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
Tip: Portion leftovers into single servings for easy reheating.
Recipe Variations
Broccoli Cheddar Ham Pasta Casserole is versatile and easy to customize. Here are some fun twists:
- Vegetarian Casserole: Omit ham and add 1 cup sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies.
- Spicy Casserole: Add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes or cayenne to the sauce for a kick.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free protein pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Vegan Casserole: Use plant-based pasta, vegan cottage cheese or cream cheese, non-dairy milk, vegan cheddar, and omit ham or use plant-based protein.
- Cheesy Broccoli Casserole: Increase cheddar to 2 cups or add ¼ cup shredded mozzarella.
Conclusion: Savor the Creamy Comfort!
Broccoli Cheddar Ham Pasta Casserole is the dish that brings hearty, protein-packed comfort to every bite. With its creamy cottage cheese sauce, tender broccoli, savory ham, and melty cheddar topping, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. Easy to make with a big flavor payoff, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. So, grab your casserole dish, bake this delicious dish, and enjoy a plate of wholesome indulgence. We’d love to hear how your casserole turns out—share your creations in the comments or on social media!
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Broccoli Cheddar Ham Pasta Casserole
Description
Craving a hearty, comforting dish that’s loaded with protein and veggies? Broccoli Cheddar Ham Pasta Casserole combines tender broccoli, savory ham, protein-packed pasta, and a creamy cheddar-cottage cheese sauce for a delicious, wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Broccoli Cheddar Ham Pasta Casserole uses simple ingredients to create a creamy, hearty dish. Here’s what you’ll need for 6-8 servings:
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen): Adds vibrant color and nutrition.
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil: For roasting broccoli.
- 12 ounces diced ham: Provides savory, protein-rich flavor.
- 12 ounces protein pasta: Boosts protein content (e.g., chickpea, lentil, or edamame pasta).
- 16 ounces low-fat cottage cheese: Creates a creamy, protein-packed sauce.
- ⅔ cup milk: Thins the sauce for a smooth consistency.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances overall flavors.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a mild kick.
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic: Brings savory depth.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Adds rich, cheesy flavor.
- ¼ cup pasta water: Helps thicken and bind the sauce.
- Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping): Adds a crunchy texture.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Cottage Cheese: Provides a creamy, high-protein base without heavy cream.
- Protein Pasta: Increases protein, making the dish more filling.
- Broccoli and Ham: Add nutrition and hearty, savory flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: Delivers melty, cheesy goodness and a golden topping.
Substitutions and Variations
- Broccoli: Swap with cauliflower, zucchini, or green beans for different veggies.
- Ham: Replace with diced turkey, cooked chicken, bacon, or omit for a vegetarian option (add extra veggies or beans for protein).
- Protein Pasta: Use whole wheat pasta, regular pasta, or gluten-free pasta.
- Cottage Cheese: Substitute with full-fat cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, or plant-based cream cheese for a vegan option.
- Milk: Use any milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, oat, or soy) or more pasta water for a lighter sauce.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based pasta, vegan cottage cheese or cream cheese, non-dairy milk, vegan cheddar, and omit ham or use plant-based protein.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free protein pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Spicy Casserole: Add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes or cayenne to the sauce.
- Cheesy Boost: Increase cheddar to 2 cups or add ¼ cup shredded mozzarella.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather all ingredients: 3 cups broccoli florets, 1 tablespoon avocado oil, 12 ounces diced ham, 12 ounces protein pasta, 16 ounces low-fat cottage cheese, ⅔ cup milk, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, ½ tablespoon minced garlic, 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, ¼ cup pasta water, and breadcrumbs (optional).
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
- If using fresh broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets.
Tip: Use low-fat cottage cheese for a lighter dish; full-fat adds extra creaminess.
Step 2: Roast Broccoli
- Place 3 cups broccoli florets on a sheet pan.
- Drizzle with 1 tablespoon avocado oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
- Toss to coat and roast at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, until tender and slightly charred.
- Remove broccoli from the oven and lower the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C).
Tip: Spread broccoli in a single layer for even roasting; frozen broccoli may need 2-3 extra minutes.
Step 3: Cook Pasta
- Cook 12 ounces protein pasta according to package directions in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente (typically 7-10 minutes, depending on pasta type).
- Before draining, reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Tip: Undercook pasta slightly as it will cook further in the oven; reserve pasta water for a silky sauce.
Step 4: Make Creamy Sauce
- In a blender, combine 16 ounces low-fat cottage cheese, ⅔ cup milk, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and ½ tablespoon minced garlic.
- Blend until smooth, about 30-60 seconds, ensuring no cottage cheese curds remain.
- Pour the blended sauce into a large non-stick skillet and warm over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tip: Blend thoroughly for a smooth sauce; warm gently to avoid curdling.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
- Add the reserved ¼ cup pasta water and ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce.
- Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to coat.
- Turn off the heat and continue stirring for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the pasta. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.
- Stir in the roasted broccoli and 12 ounces diced ham.
Tip: Stir gently to avoid breaking the pasta; ensure broccoli and ham are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Top with the remaining ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs, if using.
- Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tip: For a golden top, broil for 1-2 minutes on low, watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 7: Serve
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes to set.
- Slice or scoop into 6-8 portions and serve warm.
Tip: Serve immediately for the best texture; garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.
FAQs
1. Why is my casserole watery?
Excess liquid may come from broccoli or cottage cheese. Roast broccoli thoroughly and drain cottage cheese if watery.
2. Can I use full-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, full-fat cottage cheese adds extra creaminess but increases fat content slightly.
3. Is this casserole gluten-free?
Not as written, but use gluten-free protein pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
4. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, roast from frozen for 18-22 minutes to remove excess moisture.
5. Can I make this ahead?
Yes, prep components or assemble the casserole up to 1 day ahead; refrigerate or freeze for later baking.
6. Can I skip the ham?
Yes, omit or replace with extra veggies or beans for a vegetarian version.
7. What are the health benefits of this dish?
Cottage cheese, ham, and protein pasta provide high protein, broccoli adds fiber and vitamins, and lighter ingredients keep it balanced—enjoy with moderation due to cheese.