Glen’s Broccoli Ham Roll-Ups: A Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Classic

There’s a particular kind of warmth that radiates from certain dishes, a feeling that instantly transports you back to cozy gatherings and shared laughter. For me, Glen’s Broccoli Ham Roll-Ups evoke precisely that sentiment. I remember countless potlucks and family reunions where these savory spirals were the first to disappear from the buffet table. It wasn’t just the delicious combination of creamy filling and salty ham; it was the undeniable sense of comfort and joy they brought to everyone around the table. They were always a hit, and I am sure that they will become one of your favorites as well.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Yield: 12 roll-ups
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 (10 ounce) package chopped frozen steam in a bag broccoli
• 1 (10 3/4 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
• 1 cup dry panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped onion
• 1 1/2 teaspoons diced pimentos
• 1/8 teaspoon thyme
• 1 dash pepper
• 12 slices cooked ham (1/8 inch thick)

Equipment Needed

• Microwave
• Large bowl
• 13-in. x 9-in. x 2 inches baking dish

Instructions

1. Begin by cooking the broccoli in the microwave for approximately 5 1/2 minutes. Follow the instructions on the steam in a bag broccoli packaging for best results. This step ensures that the broccoli is tender and easily incorporated into the filling.
2. Once cooked, carefully drain the broccoli thoroughly. Excess moisture can make the filling soggy, so this step is crucial.
3. In a large bowl, combine the undiluted condensed cream of mushroom soup, dry panko breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, diced pimentos, and thyme. This mixture forms the base of the flavorful filling.
4. Add the drained broccoli to the bowl and mix well, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly distributed. The broccoli should be thoroughly coated with the creamy mixture. Add pepper to taste.
5. Spoon approximately 1/4 cup of the broccoli mixture onto each slice of cooked ham. Spread the filling evenly over the ham, leaving a small border at the edges for easier rolling.
6. Carefully roll up each ham slice, starting from one end and rolling tightly to create a secure roll.
7. Place the ham roll-ups in an ungreased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2 inches baking dish. Arrange them snugly side by side to prevent them from unraveling during baking.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil. This helps to retain moisture and prevent the roll-ups from drying out.
9. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 minutes, or until the roll-ups are heated through and the filling is bubbly. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
10. Carefully remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the tops to brown lightly, if desired. Watch closely to avoid burning.
11. Let the roll-ups stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes them easier to handle.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a touch of garlic powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
• If you prefer a crispier topping, sprinkle additional panko breadcrumbs or grated cheddar cheese over the roll-ups during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• To make these ahead of time, assemble the roll-ups and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery for a slightly different flavor profile.
• If you have leftover cooked broccoli, this is a great way to use it up. Just be sure to chop it finely before adding it to the filling.
• Try adding a thin layer of Dijon mustard to the ham before adding the filling for a tangy twist.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve Glen’s Broccoli Ham Roll-Ups warm as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal. They are particularly delicious with a side salad or a bowl of soup. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for added visual appeal.

Leftover roll-ups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, or microwave on medium power until warm.

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the filling can change upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	225.3 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	76 g	34%
Total Fat	8.5 g	13%
Saturated Fat	2.9 g	14%
Cholesterol	7.4 mg	2%
Sodium	799.5 mg	33%
Total Carbohydrate	29.7 g	9%
Dietary Fiber	3.1 g	12%
Sugars	4.2 g	N/A
Protein	8.6 g	17%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Vegetarian: Substitute the ham with thinly sliced smoked tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Gruyere, to customize the flavor.
• Vegetable Boost: Add other vegetables, such as chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach, to the filling for added nutrients and flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
A: Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Be sure to chop it into small pieces and steam or blanch it until tender-crisp before adding it to the filling.

Q: Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the roll-ups, cover them tightly, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
A: You can substitute with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor.

Q: How do I prevent the roll-ups from unraveling?
A: Roll the ham slices tightly and arrange them snugly in the baking dish to help them maintain their shape during baking.

Q: Can I add a sauce on top of the roll-ups before baking?
A: Sure, you could drizzle a cheese sauce or a light gravy over the roll-ups before baking for added flavor and moisture.

Final Thoughts

Glen’s Broccoli Ham Roll-Ups are more than just a recipe; they are a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into a comforting and delicious dish. They’re perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to share a little bit of homemade goodness. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to create a dish that will bring smiles to faces and warmth to hearts. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your own variations and experiences. Bon appétit!