Cauliflower Gratin with Ham
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
40 mins
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Total Time
50 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Calories
251 kcal
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Course
Side Dish
Cauliflower Gratin with Ham
Description
Cauliflower Gratin with Ham begins by lightly boiling cauliflower florets until just tender and draining them well. A classic béchamel sauce is prepared by cooking butter and flour to form a roux, then whisking in milk until thickened. Parmesan cheese, salt, and freshly ground nutmeg are added for flavor complexity. After cooling slightly, egg yolks are whisked in to enrich the sauce, followed by diced smoked ham for a smoky depth. The cauliflower is placed in a buttered baking dish, the sauce is poured over, and grated Jarlsberg cheese tops the dish. Baking at 350°F allows the gratin to develop a golden, bubbling crust while the interior remains creamy and rich.
This gratin suits as a satisfying side dish or a light main when paired with a fresh salad. Its balance of creamy sauce, tender cauliflower, and savory ham makes it a classic comfort food choice.
Ingredients
- 1 large cauliflower cut into florets, head
- 1/4 cup butter unsalted
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk can substitute part of it with heavy cream for an even richer, creamier result, whole
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg freshly ground
- 2 large egg yolk
- 6 ounces smoked ham , diced
- 1/2 cup Jarlsberg cheese grated, or Swiss cheese
Instructions
- Butter a 2 quart baking dish and sprinkle a little bit of flour in the bottom (less than a tablespoon).Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Boil cauliflower florets for 3-4 minutes just until barely softened. Do not overcook. Drain thoroughly while you're making the bechamel sauce.
- To make the bechamel sauce: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and use a wire whisk to blend it with the butter. Let the mixture bubble for 2 minutes until just barely lightly golden, continually whisking. Gradually add the milk while continually whisking to prevent lumps and whisk until smooth. Let it simmer, whisking continually, until thickened. Add the Parmesan cheese, salt and nutmeg and whisk until smooth. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes, whisking continually. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool for 5 minutes then whisk in the egg yolks followed by the the diced ham. Add more salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the cauliflower florets in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle lightly with a little salt. Pour the sauce over the cauliflower then even sprinkle over the cheese. Bake uncovered for 30-40 min or until the top is golden and the mixture is bubbly. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 251 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 251kcal | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 13g | 4% |
| Protein | 14g | 28% |
| Fat | 16g | 25% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Sodium | 928mg | 39% |
| Potassium | 581mg | 12% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 5g | 10% |
| Vitamin C | 67.5mg | 75% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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