Ham Wraparounds
Ham Wraparounds feature tender asparagus wrapped in ham, smothered in creamy cheese sauce, creating a savory, comforting dish perfect for a quick appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook fresh asparagus in boiling salted water in a 1-quart casserole dish until tender, about 9 to 10 minutes.
- If using canned asparagus, skip to the next step.
- Melt butter in a 1-quart casserole dish; stir in flour.
- Add milk and cook until the sauce thickens, stirring every 30 seconds.
- Beat egg yolks and stir into the sauce.
- Add salt and dry mustard to season the sauce.
- Wrap 3 stalks of cooked asparagus in each slice of boiled ham.
- Lay the ham bundles in a glass utility dish and cover with the cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the top.
- Cover and microwave for 4 1/2 minutes.
- Serve the ham wraparounds on toast.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on this dish, consider using prosciutto instead of boiled ham for a more savory flavor. You can also add a splash of lemon juice to the cheese sauce for extra brightness. If you're short on time, pre-cooked asparagus works well; just ensure it is heated through before wrapping. Pairing this dish with a side of Cheesy Corn can enhance the overall meal experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve ham wraparounds on a bed of toast to absorb the delicious cheese sauce. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish. For an alternative pairing, try serving with New England Clam Chowder Soup (Microwave) as a comforting starter. This makes for a delightful lunch or dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ham wraparounds can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through, adding a splash of milk to the cheese sauce if it has thickened. This will help retain creaminess when reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Wraparounds contains roughly 548 calories, with 20g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), iron (38% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2139mg per serving (93% 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 other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute asparagus with blanched green beans or even cooked spinach for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the vegetables are tender but still have a slight crunch for the best texture in the wraparounds.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ham wraparounds and cover them with cheese sauce up to a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, microwave until heated through, ensuring the cheese sauce is melty and flavorful.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
A sharp cheddar cheese is ideal for a rich flavor, but you can also use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and gouda for a creamier texture. Experimenting with different cheeses can enhance the overall taste of the dish.
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).