Step 1

Note: This recipe is designed to allow you to prepare all of the casserole ingredients in one pot before transferring to a casserole dish for baking. Before you begin, refer to your rice package for the amount of liquid (we'll use chicken broth) and cooking time. If preferred, cook the rice separately and skip the broth ingredient. You'll need 2 cups of cooked rice to combine with the other casserole ingredients. I use white long grain rice and the cooking times below work perfectly.

Step 2

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Step 3

Melt the 2 Tablespoons butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the diced onions and cook for 5 minutes, until softened.

Step 5

Add 1 more Tablespoons butter to the pot.

Step 6

Add the chicken broth, olive oil, and rice to the pot and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

Step 7

Cover tightly and cook for 7 minutes.

Step 8

Add the broccoli, replace the cover, cook for 8 more minutes. Refrain from stirring.

Step 9

Turn off heat, leave the cover on. Let the rice stand for 10 minutes. Any rice on the bottom of the pot will release during this time.

Step 10

Add the diced ham, condensed soup, sour cream, milk, and ONE cup of the cheddar cheese. Stir until well-combined.

Step 11

Spread into a lightly greased 9 x 13 casserole dish.

Step 12

Top with remaining cup of cheddar cheese.

Step 13

Cover and bake for 15 minutes.

Step 14

Combine the Ritz cracker crumbs and butter. Spread over the top of the casserole and bake, uncovered, for 10 additional minutes.

Step 15

Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes prior to serving.