Ham And Broccoli Sauce
A creamy ham and broccoli sauce with Parmesan cheese, perfect for a comforting meal that combines savory flavors and nutritious vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt 1 1/2 teaspoons of margarine over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and continue whisking for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and black pepper until cheese is melted.
- Add sour cream and mix well with the sauce.
- Add the ham pieces and thawed broccoli florets to the sauce and heat through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whole milk instead of nonfat milk. If you want to add more flavor, try sautéing some minced garlic or onion in the margarine before adding the flour. You can substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different twist, or use a vegetarian protein like tofu to make it plant-based. This sauce is also great over pasta or rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham and broccoli sauce over cooked pasta, rice, or baked potatoes for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Wise Pork Chops for a delicious dinner combination. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ham and broccoli sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can cause the sauce to separate.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Broccoli Sauce contains roughly 383 calories, with 14g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value) and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the point before adding the ham and broccoli. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove, adding the ham and broccoli just before serving to keep the vegetables fresh.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind that this will alter the taste slightly, but it will still create a delicious sauce.
Can I freeze the ham and broccoli sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the ham and broccoli sauce. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stove, adding a bit of milk to restore creaminess.
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).