Broccoli Blankets
Broccoli Blankets are savory ham rolls filled with melted Swiss cheese and tender broccoli, topped with a creamy seasoned sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Top each ham slice with a slice of Swiss cheese.
- Place a cooked and drained broccoli spear in the center of each ham slice.
- Roll up each ham slice with the broccoli inside and secure with toothpicks.
- Arrange the rolled ham in a 6x10-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet, cook sliced onions in butter until tender.
- Blend in flour, salt, basil, and pepper into the cooked onions.
- Gradually pour the milk into the onion mixture, stirring constantly to make a sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the rolled ham in the baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey ham and low-fat Swiss cheese. You can also substitute the broccoli with spinach or asparagus for a different flavor. If you're short on time, pre-cooked ham can work well. Adjust the seasoning to your preference; adding garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the sauce. Pair with a Pre-Tossed Salad for a fresh crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Broccoli Blankets hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted potatoes or a light salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of Meat Loaf(Very Old Recipe) for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick reheating, though the oven will keep the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Blankets contains roughly 651 calories, with 13g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 493mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare Broccoli Blankets in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking stage. Assemble the ham rolls and pour the sauce over them, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of Swiss cheese?
You can substitute Swiss cheese with provolone, mozzarella, or even cheddar for a different flavor profile. Each cheese will bring its own unique taste to the dish, so choose according to your preference.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by replacing the ham with slices of eggplant or using a plant-based deli meat alternative. Ensure the cheese is vegetarian-friendly, or use a vegan cheese substitute for a completely plant-based option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).