Cauliflower and Ham Casserole

This Cauliflower and Ham Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish, perfect for any meal of the day. It's a hearty concoction of tender cauliflower florets, savory ham, and rich sour cream sauce with a golden breadcrumb topping. The combination of Dutch or Cheddar cheese adds a creamy texture and a burst of flavor that complements the salty ham perfectly. Fresh parsley offers a refreshing touch that balances the richness of the dish. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also requires simple ingredients you likely have on hand. It's ideal for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. The dish can be paired with a fresh salad or crusty bread to make a complete meal. With a cooking time of around 40 minutes, this casserole is an excellent choice for busy days when you want something delicious yet uncomplicated. It's sure to become a family favorite, impressing everyone from kids to adults with its combination of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

250 g cauliflower
75 g ham or pork roast
50 g sour cream
15 g cheese (such as Dutch or Cheddar)

Additional Ingredients

Fresh parsley
Breadcrumbs
Salt
Water

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes (Preparation and Cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by washing the cauliflower thoroughly and breaking it into medium-sized florets.
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the cauliflower florets.
Cook the cauliflower until they're almost tender but still retain some bite, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Drain the cauliflower and set it aside, ensuring there's no excess water.
Cut the ham or pork roast into small, bite-sized pieces.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked cauliflower florets with the diced ham.
Finely chop a handful of fresh parsley and add it to the cauliflower and ham mixture.
Toss the ingredients gently to mix well.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) while you prepare the rest of the casserole.
In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream with grated cheese until creamy. You can adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference for richness.
Add a pinch of salt to the mixture for taste.
In a baking dish, arrange the cauliflower and ham mixture evenly.
Pour the sour cream and cheese mixture over the top, ensuring it covers all the ingredients for an even bake.
Sprinkle breadcrumbs generously over the top to create a crispy crust.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes.
Check the casserole, ensuring the topping is golden brown and the dish is heated through.
Once browned to your liking, remove the casserole from the oven.
Allow it to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld.
Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.
Serve the casserole warm, enjoying the blend of textures and flavors.

Tips

Substitutions: Use turkey or chicken instead of ham for a different flavor.
Cheese Options: Try Swiss or Gruyere for a unique twist.
Breadcrumbs: Panko can be used for extra crispiness.
Sour Cream Alternative: Greek yogurt can be used for a healthier alternative.

Nutritions (per serving)

Calories: 250
Protein: 14g
Fats: 16g
Carbs: 12g

Variations

Vegetarian: Omit the ham and add more cheese or tofu for protein.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a kick.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
Garnishes: Sprinkle extra cheese or add a dollop of sour cream on top.
Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine or herbal tea.

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