Cauliflower Potato Casserole

This delicious cauliflower and potato casserole is a comfort food classic that brings together hearty vegetables and savory ham in a creamy cheese sauce. It’s a perfect dish for family dinners or potlucks, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The backbone of the recipe is cauliflower and potatoes, complemented by the sweetness of bell peppers and the rich, smoky taste of ham. Ementaler cheese and a smooth cream sauce tie it all together, creating a culinary delight in every bite. Although it sounds sophisticated, this casserole is surprisingly easy to prepare, all within an hour. The steps are simple, yet the result is something truly heartwarming. It's an ideal recipe for utilizing pantry staples while creating a meal that feels gourmet. This dish is also adaptable, lending itself to variations based on dietary preferences. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this comforting and flavor-packed casserole.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 600 g potatoes
• 1.2 kg cauliflower
• 2 small red bell peppers
• 250 g sliced cooked ham
• 1 large onion
• 150 g Emmentaler cheese

Spices:

• Salt
• Pepper
• 1 pinch grated nutmeg

Sauces:

• 250 g sweet cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 3/8 l broth

Preparation Time

• Total: 60 min (Prep: 30 min, Cook: 30 min)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin with the potatoes. Wash them thoroughly and boil in a small amount of water for about 20 minutes until tender.
2. Prepare the cauliflower. Rinse and break it into florets, then boil in salted water for 10 minutes, ensuring it's cooked yet still firm.
3. Focus on the bell peppers. Clean, wash, and slice them into strips. Blanch these strips in boiling salted water for 1 minute, rinse with cold water, and drain well.
4. Chop the onion. Peel and finely dice the onion.
5. Sauté the onion. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a pan and sauté the onion until it turns translucent.
6. Prepare the sauce. Sprinkle the sautéed onions with flour and cook until golden.
7. Combine ingredients for sauce. Gradually add the broth and cream to the onion and flour mixture, bringing it to a boil. Continue stirring as it thickens over about 10 minutes for a rich and creamy texture.
8. Season the sauce. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste. Incorporate the Emmentaler cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
9. Preheat the oven. Set it to 200°C (390°F) to ensure it reaches the right temperature.
10. Assemble the casserole. Grease the casserole dish with the remaining butter.
11. Layer the vegetables. Drain, peel, and slice the potatoes, then arrange them in the dish.
12. Add the cauliflower and bell peppers. Mix them with the potatoes, allowing flavors to mingle.
13. Slice the ham. Cut into strips and evenly distribute among the vegetables.
14. Season again if needed. Sprinkle the layered ingredients with additional salt and pepper.
15. Pour the sauce evenly. Make sure to cover all the vegetables and ham.
16. Bake the casserole. Place it in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes at 180°C (350°F) until the top is golden and bubbly.
17. Check for doneness. The cheese should be melted and crispy on the edges.
18. Let it rest briefly. Allow the casserole to cool slightly, making it easier to serve.
19. Garnish your dish. Optionally, add fresh herbs like parsley before serving.
20. Serve and enjoy. Share this comforting dish with family or friends for a delightful meal.

Tips

• For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the broth with milk.
• Vegetarian version: Omit the ham and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini.
• You can use cheddar or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
• For added crunch, top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 15 g
• Fats: 20 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g

Variations

• Vegetarian: Remove ham and add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour as a thickener.
• Vegan: Substitute cheese and cream with plant-based alternatives.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Complement with a chilled glass of white wine for an elegant dining experience.

Best Places

• Bistrot Paul Bert - Offers exquisite and traditional French casseroles. Location: 18 Rue Paul Bert, Paris, France.
• The Ledbury - Known for its innovative take on classic dishes. Location: 127 Ledbury Rd, Notting Hill, London, UK.
• Le Coucou - A trendy spot with a rustic, elegant vibe. Location: 138 Lafayette St, New York, USA.
• Etxebarri - Celebrated for its unique approach to grilling and casseroles. Location: San Juan Plaza, Axpe, Spain.
• Relæ - A modern Scandinavian take on organic ingredients. Location: Jægersborggade 41, Copenhagen, Denmark.
• Blue Hill at Stone Barns - Focuses on sustainable and locally-sourced dishes. Location: 630 Bedford Rd, Pocantico Hills, New York, USA.
• Tickets - For a twist on traditional tapas and casseroles. Location: Av. del Paraŀlel, 164, Barcelona, Spain.
• Danish Krogh’s - A delightful place for comfort food enthusiasts. Location: Nørrebrogade 220, Copenhagen, Denmark.
• Chez Panisse - Prominent for its pioneering of farm-to-table cuisine. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, California, USA.
• Noma - Notorious for avant-garde dishes and unique food experiences. Location: Refshalevej 96, Copenhagen, Denmark.