Description

A quick, stress-free 15-minute dinner bowl that uses leftover rice, deli ham, and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s a kid-approved, customizable meal that feels like a gourmet bento box without the prep time.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups pre-cooked rice (Jasmine or basmati)
4–6 slices deli ham (thick-sliced preferred)
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup shredded lettuce or spinach
1/2 cup croutons or toasted seeds
1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped
2 stalks green onions, sliced
Optional: 1/2 avocado, sliced
Optional: Hot sauce to taste
Optional: 1/4 cup dried fruit (cranberries or apricots)

Instructions

Microwave the pre-cooked rice with a teaspoon of water for 1-2 minutes until steaming hot.
Place a handful of shredded lettuce or spinach in the bottom of large bowls.
Fold ham slices into quarters or rosettes and place on top of the greens.
Scoop the hot rice into the center of the bowl over the ham and greens.
Immediately sprinkle the shredded cheese over the hot rice and let sit for 30 seconds to melt.
Add croutons or seeds, drizzle with hot sauce, and add dried fruit if using.
Gently toss everything together until the cheese coats the ingredients but the lettuce remains crisp.
Serve immediately with side crackers or fruit.

Notes

The pickles provide essential acid to cut through the fat of the cheese and ham. Add croutons right before serving to maintain crunch. If using cold rice, microwave it with water first to ensure the cheese melts properly. For meal prep, store wet and dry ingredients separately to prevent sogginess.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 380
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 650
Fat: 14
Saturated Fat: 7
Carbohydrates: 45
Fiber: 3
Protein: 18

Keywords: quick dinner, ham and cheese, bento bowl, kid-friendly, weeknight meals, leftover rice, 5pm dinner hack, easy lunch