Cauliflower, ham and cheese bake

Chef: The Irish Countrywomen's Association

Prep: 10 mins

Cook: 30 mins

I used to feed this to my children when they came in hungry from school. It was nutritious enough to keep me happy and delicious enough to keep them happy, and is quick and easy to prepare – just what you want in a simple teatime dish - Therese Pettit recipe owner

1 large cauliflower

50g butter

25g plain flour

400ml milk, warmed

150g cooked ham, diced

150g Irish cheddar, grated

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 handfuls breadcrumbs

What you’ll need:

Ovenproof casserole dish

Preheat oven to 200ºC / 400ºF / Gas Mark 6.

Break the cauliflower into florets, pop into a large pot with some salt and set aside.

Melt the butter in a large saucepan, stir in the flour and cook together for a few minutes, continuing to stir.

Slowly whisk warmed milk into flour mixture and cook gently over a medium to low heat for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, add a kettleful of boiling water to the cauliflower and simmer until just tender. Drain and set aside.

Add the ham and cheese to the white sauce, season with salt and pepper, and stir in the cauliflower.

Transfer the mixture into a large casserole dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs across the top and bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes or until golden brown and heated through.

Serves
4

Preparation Time
10 minutes

Cooking Time
30 minutes

Main ingredients
Dairy, Flour, Cheese, Vegetables

Recipe Type
Dinner, Entertaining, Family Dinners, Quick Meals

Level of Difficulty
Easy