Paula Deen’s Ham and Banana Casserole: A Southern Comfort Classic

The first time I encountered the idea of ham and bananas coexisting in a casserole was at a potluck in Savannah, Georgia. I was a young, wide-eyed culinary student, and the dish, proudly presented by a sweet lady named Mildred, raised more than a few eyebrows. Initially, I was skeptical – my mind conjured up images of mushy sweetness clashing with savory saltiness. But one bite, and my preconceptions melted away like butter on a hot skillet. The flavors, while unexpected, were surprisingly harmonious, a delightful dance of sweet, salty, and creamy that epitomized Southern comfort food. Mildred’s version became a treasured memory, and this recipe, inspired by Paula Deen’s take on the classic, brings back that delightful surprise every time.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 9
• Yield: 1 casserole
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• Butter, for greasing the dish and buttering bread
• 12 slices white bread
• 8 slices deli ham (large slices)
• 4 bananas, sliced on the bias
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups crushed potato chips
• 6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup cream
• 1 pinch freshly grated nutmeg
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Equipment Needed

• 9×13 inch glass baking dish
• Large bowl
• Whisk
• Butter knife

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Make sure your oven rack is positioned in the center for even baking.
2. Generously butter a 9×13 inch glass baking dish. This is crucial for preventing the casserole from sticking and ensuring easy serving.
3. Butter both sides of all 12 slices of white bread. This adds richness and helps the bread slices hold their shape during baking.
4. Layer 6 slices of the buttered bread into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. You may need to overlap the slices slightly, but aim for an even layer to create a solid base for the other ingredients.
5. Layer the 8 slices of deli ham on top of the bread. Arrange them evenly to cover the bread completely. Large slices are preferable for optimal coverage and a satisfying savory layer.
6. Arrange the 4 bananas, sliced on the bias, over the ham. Slicing the bananas on the bias (at an angle) not only looks more appealing but also provides a larger surface area for even distribution of flavor.
7. Cover the bananas with the remaining 6 slices of buttered bread, overlapping as needed to create a complete layer.
8. Sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the bread. Make sure every corner gets a generous helping of cheese; it will melt beautifully during baking and bind everything together.
9. Evenly distribute the 2 cups of crushed potato chips over the cheese. The potato chips add a delightful salty crunch that contrasts perfectly with the other ingredients.
10. Top the casserole with the 6 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon. Crispy bacon is a must for adding smoky flavor and texture.
11. In a separate large bowl, beat together the 4 large eggs, 1 cup milk, 1 cup cream, 1 pinch freshly grated nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that complements the other flavors beautifully. Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper; they’re essential for balancing the sweetness of the bananas.
12. Pour the egg mixture over the casserole, making sure to saturate all the layers. The liquid should come almost to the top of the dish. Gently press down on the top layer of ingredients to ensure they are fully submerged in the custard.
13. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly. The top should be nicely browned, and the custard should be set. A slight wobble is okay, but it should not be liquid.
14. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set up slightly and make it easier to cut and serve.
15. Cut the casserole into squares and remove with a spatula, like lasagna.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For extra crispy potato chips, you can lightly toast them in a dry skillet before adding them to the casserole.
• If you want a more intense banana flavor, you can brush the banana slices with a little bit of rum before layering them in the casserole.
• To prevent the top from browning too quickly, you can tent the casserole with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere or Swiss cheese would be delicious alternatives to cheddar.
• If you want to prepare this casserole ahead of time, you can assemble it up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve Paula Deen’s Ham and Banana Casserole warm, straight from the oven. It’s a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or a casual dinner. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. The casserole is best served fresh, but it will still be delicious reheated. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the bananas and bread may change.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	327.1 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	154 g	47%
Total Fat	17.1 g	26%
Saturated Fat	8.3 g	41%
Cholesterol	133.8 mg	44%
Sodium	593.7 mg	24%
Total Carbohydrate	32 g	10%
Dietary Fiber	2.5 g	9%
Sugars	8 g	31%
Protein	12.1 g	24%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free bread and be mindful of the ingredients in your potato chips, ensuring they are gluten-free as well.
• Vegetarian: While the original recipe isn’t vegetarian, you can easily adapt it by replacing the ham and bacon with vegetarian alternatives such as smoked tofu or mushroom bacon.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free milk and cream alternatives, such as almond or oat milk, and substitute dairy-free cheddar cheese.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture for a touch of heat.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen bananas for this casserole?
A: While you can use frozen bananas, keep in mind that they will release more moisture during baking, which could make the casserole a bit soggy. If you use frozen bananas, thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before adding them to the casserole.

Q: Can I make this casserole the night before?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when you bake it from the refrigerator.

Q: What kind of potato chips work best in this casserole?
A: Plain, salted potato chips are the best choice, as they provide a salty crunch without overpowering the other flavors. However, you can experiment with other flavors, such as barbecue or sour cream and onion, if you like.

Q: Can I substitute the cream with half-and-half?
A: Yes, you can substitute the cream with half-and-half for a slightly lighter casserole. However, the cream adds richness and a smoother texture, so keep that in mind.

Q: How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
A: The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the custard is set. A slight wobble is okay, but it should not be liquid. You can also insert a knife into the center of the casserole; if it comes out clean, it’s done.

Final Thoughts

Paula Deen’s Ham and Banana Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary adventure, a delightful surprise waiting to unfold with every bite. Don’t be afraid to embrace the unexpected combination of flavors and textures. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to be amazed. I encourage you to try this recipe, share it with your loved ones, and let me know what you think. Serve it with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal, and perhaps a sweet iced tea to complete the Southern experience. Happy cooking!