Leftover Ham and Rice Casserole
Leftover Ham and Rice Casserole is a comforting, baked one-dish meal that transforms holiday or leftover ham into a hearty family dinner. It typically features diced ham, cooked rice, a creamy sauce (often made with cream of mushroom or chicken soup), cheese, and sometimes mixed vegetables like peas or broccoli. This dish is a staple of American home cooking, particularly popular in the Midwest and South for its convenience and ability to reduce food waste.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This casserole is generally high in protein and fat due to the ham and cheese, with a significant carbohydrate content from the rice and creamy sauce. It provides a good source of protein, B vitamins (especially niacin and B12 from the ham), and calcium, with a typical serving ranging from 350 to 450 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbs | 35 g |
| Fat | 17 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 890 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Phosphorus | 280 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.2 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 5 mg |
| Calcium | 220 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Selenium | 22 mcg |
| Zinc | 3 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, this dish embodies the American tradition of 'comfort food' and practical home cooking, designed to make the most of leftovers. Nutritionally, it's a complete meal in one dish, offering a balance of macronutrients, though it can be high in sodium and saturated fat depending on the ingredients used.
