Ham And Broccoli In Savory Sauce
Creamy ham and broccoli in a savory cheese sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a blend of cheesy richness and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli according to package directions. Drain.
- Blend flour and melted butter together.
- Add milk and grated Cheddar cheese to the flour mixture and cook, stirring, until thickened.
- Add cooked broccoli and cubed ham to the sauce.
- Heat the mixture through.
- Stir in sour cream without boiling.
- Serve over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker sauce, increase the flour slightly, but adjust the milk accordingly. If you prefer a lighter option, consider using low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese. Substitute fresh broccoli if you have it on hand, cooking it just until tender. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile of the sauce, complementing the cheese and ham.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, providing a hearty base for the rich sauce. For a complete meal, serve with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. You could also offer a light fruit dessert, like Cherry Fluffs, to balance the savory flavors of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave portions in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated thoroughly. Avoid boiling to maintain the creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Broccoli In Savory Sauce contains roughly 996 calories, with 22g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (124% of the Daily Value), protein (44% of the Daily Value), and iron (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 465mg per serving (20% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli in this recipe. Blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and proceed with the recipe as directed. Fresh broccoli will provide a vibrant color and slightly firmer texture.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Ensure all other ingredients, especially processed items like cheese and sour cream, are labeled gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor. Just ensure they are cooked until tender before mixing them into the sauce.
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).