Name: Ham and Apple Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked ham, diced; 3 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced; 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme); ¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ¾ cup panko or regular breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; ¼ cup apple juice or cider; Cooking spray (for greasing the dish)

Hey y'all! If you're searching for the ultimate comfort food that combines juicy apples, savory ham, and a touch of sweetness all wrapped in a golden, bubbly bake, you're in the right place. This Ham and apple Bake is a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any cozy occasion. The rich flavors and satisfying textures will have everyone at your table coming back for seconds. Let's get cooking!

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Why You'll Love This

Quick and Easy: Simple prep and hands-off baking make this perfect for busy days.
Perfect Balance of Flavors: The sweet apples pair perfectly with salty, savory ham.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these familiar, comforting flavors.
Great for Leftovers: This bake tastes even better the next day!
Customizable: Easily swap in your favorites for a dish that's uniquely yours.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked ham, diced
3 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced
1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
¾ cup panko or regular breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon brown sugar
¼ cup apple juice or cider
Cooking spray (for greasing the dish)

Directions

Prep Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Peel and slice your apples, dice the ham, and thinly slice the onion.

Assemble the Bake

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and golden.
Stir in the apples, cinnamon, black pepper, and thyme. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, just until the apples begin to soften.
Remove from heat. Gently toss in the diced ham.
Spread half of the ham and apple mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese.
Layer the remaining ham and apple mixture on top, then sprinkle with the rest of the cheddar cheese.

Top and Bake

In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar until evenly coated.
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole. Drizzle the apple juice or cider over the top for added moisture and flavor.
Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bake is bubbling at the edges. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Notes

Be sure to use tart apples for the best flavor balance. Sweet apples may make the dish overly sugary.
If you don't have panko, regular breadcrumbs work just as well for the topping.
For an extra golden crust, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end—just watch it closely!

Variations

Cheesy Ham and Apple Bake: Add an extra cup of cheese for gooey richness.
Vegetarian Option: Swap ham for smoked tempeh or extra veggies like mushrooms and broccoli.
Spicy Twist: Add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a kick.

Required Equipment

9x13-inch baking dish
Sharp knife and cutting board
Large skillet
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons

Storage Instructions

Let leftovers cool completely, then cover and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly and use within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts for a complete meal.
Pair with a glass of dry white wine or sparkling apple cider.
Try as a brunch dish with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.

Pro Tips

Slice the apples thinly and evenly for optimal tenderness and texture.
Use good-quality, smoked ham for the richest flavor.
Let the bake rest before serving—this allows the juices to settle and makes for neater slices.

FAQ

Can I make Ham and Apple Bake ahead of time?: Absolutely! Assemble the bake, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Bake just before serving.
What is the best type of apple to use?: Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold up well and provide the perfect sweet-tart bite.
Can I use leftover spiral ham?: Yes—leftover holiday ham works perfectly in this recipe and adds wonderful flavor!

Prep time: 15 minutes | Total time: 55 minutes | Serves: 6