Ham And Broccoli Birds In Mustard Sauce
Ham and broccoli birds in a flavorful mustard sauce are a delicious, cheesy, and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Place a cooked broccoli spear in the center of each slice of ham topped with cheese.
- Roll up each ham slice tightly around the broccoli and place seam side down in a shallow baking dish.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add flour, dry mustard, and celery seed to the melted butter and stir well.
- Cook, stirring every 1 to 2 minutes, for about 5 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and bring to a boil, stirring until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Pour the sauce over the ham and broccoli rolls.
- Sprinkle lightly with paprika.
- Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked ham slices or adding a hint of garlic to the sauce. If you're out of celery seed, a pinch of dried thyme works well as a substitute. To make this dish lighter, you could use low-fat cheese or Greek yogurt mixed into the sauce. Serve with a side salad or some roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
These ham and broccoli rolls are delicious served with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables. They pair beautifully with Ol' Fashion Farm Fry for a hearty meal. For a more filling option, consider serving them over a bed of rice or alongside mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ham and broccoli rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help retain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Broccoli Birds In Mustard Sauce contains roughly 138 calories, with 5g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 545mg per serving (24% 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 use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture. It's best to cook the broccoli until just tender before using it in the recipe to maintain its structure when rolled.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice due to its strong flavor, but you can also use Swiss or provolone for a milder taste. If you prefer a dairy-free option, consider vegan cheese that melts well.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the ham and broccoli rolls in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just add the sauce before baking, or bake them fully and reheat before serving. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep.
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).