Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 cup of Rugao ham, diced
- 1 cup of cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling broccoli
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add the milk to the saucepan, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
5. Add the salt and black pepper to the saucepan and stir to combine.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, Rugao ham, and cheddar cheese. Pour the sauce over the top and stir to combine.
7. Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 16g
Sodium: 600mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Broccoli can be substituted with cauliflower or asparagus.
- Rugao ham can be substituted with cooked ham or bacon.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with any type of cheese.
Variations:
- Add diced onions or garlic to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Top the casserole with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking for a crispy topping.
- Add cooked pasta to the casserole for a heartier dish.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain the broccoli well before adding it to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.
- Use a sharp cheddar cheese for extra flavor.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted potatoes
- Grilled vegetables
- Rice pilaf
Troubleshooting advice:
If the casserole is too dry, add a little more milk to the sauce before pouring it over the top.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the broccoli thoroughly to prevent any potential foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
Rugao ham is a type of cured ham from the Rugao region of China.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and slightly smoky.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a main dish for dinner or as a side dish for a holiday meal.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A