Governor'S Casserole
A hearty comfort food casserole combining cauliflower, broccoli, ham, and cheeses, topped with buttery bread cubes—perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook cauliflower and broccoli until slightly underdone. Drain.
- Place the cooked vegetables in a 4-quart casserole dish and sprinkle with chopped ham.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in flour to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded Cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetable and ham mixture in the casserole.
- Toss bread cubes with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh vegetables instead of frozen, or experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack. You can also substitute the ham with cooked chicken or a plant-based protein for a different twist. Ensure the bread cubes are slightly stale for better texture in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole makes a hearty main dish, ideal for family dinners or potlucks. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad, like a Majestic Layered Salad, or with roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs wonderfully with Apricot Glazed Ham for a festive occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Governor'S Casserole contains roughly 2539 calories, with 49g protein, 200g carbohydrates, and 171g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (99% of the Daily Value), calcium (82% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (76% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1322mg per serving (57% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for alternatives to cheddar cheese, consider using Colby Jack or a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a milder flavor. For a sharper taste, aged Gouda or blue cheese can add a unique twist to the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ham and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for protein. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to enhance the dish while keeping it flavorful.
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).