Creamy Cauliflower Gratin with Ham and Cheese
Indulge in this rich and creamy Cauliflower Gratin infused with savory ham and gooey melted cheese. This low-carb dish transforms simple ingredients into a comforting side that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Featuring perfectly steamed cauliflower blended with a luscious mixture of Swiss and cheddar cheese, fresh herbs, and a hint of garlic, this gratin is both satisfying and healthy. Perfect for family gatherings or meal prep, this recipe is sure to impress your guests while keeping your carb intake in check.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cauliflower
1 head (broken into florets)
Onion
1 small (diced)
Garlic
1 clove (minced)
Butter
2 tablespoons (divided)
Salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Fresh Cracked Pepper
2 teaspoons (to taste)
Dried Marjoram
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Diced Ham
1/2 cup (prepared)
Shredded Swiss Cheese
1 cup (prepared)
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
1 cup (prepared)
Egg
1 (beaten)
Half-and-Half
1/4 cup (prepared)
Cream
1/4 cup (prepared)
Sour Cream
1/2 cup (prepared)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Break the cauliflower into florets and steam them lightly in water with 1 teaspoon of salt for about 10 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
3
In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
4
Use the remaining tablespoon of butter to grease a glass or ceramic baking dish thoroughly.
5
In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed cauliflower, sautéed onion and garlic, salt, pepper, and dried marjoram. Transfer this mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6
In another bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, half-and-half, cream, and sour cream until well blended.
7
Scatter the diced ham and shredded cheese over the cauliflower mixture. Then, pour the egg and cream mixture over the entire dish, making sure it is well coated.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your deliciously creamy cauliflower gratin!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Cauliflower Gratin with Ham and Cheese?
It is a rich and comforting low-carb side dish featuring steamed cauliflower florets, savory diced ham, and a blend of Swiss and cheddar cheeses in a creamy sauce.
Is this cauliflower gratin recipe low carb?
Yes, this dish is specifically designed to be low-carb by using cauliflower as the primary base instead of starchy vegetables like potatoes.
How long does it take to steam the cauliflower?
The cauliflower should be steamed in water with a teaspoon of salt for approximately 10 minutes until it is fork-tender.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for the best results.
Can I use different types of cheese in this gratin?
Yes, while the recipe calls for Swiss and Cheddar, you can substitute them with other melting cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Mozzarella.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not use flour or breadcrumbs for thickening or topping.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is portioned to provide approximately 8 servings.
What kind of ham is best for this dish?
Diced cooked ham works best. You can use leftover holiday ham or pre-packaged diced ham found at the grocery store.
Can I make this cauliflower gratin vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the diced ham or replace it with a vegetarian meat substitute.
How do I prevent the gratin from becoming too watery?
Be sure to drain the steamed cauliflower very well before mixing it with the other ingredients to remove excess moisture.
Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower florets; just ensure they are thawed and thoroughly drained of all liquid before use.
What herbs are used to season this dish?
The recipe uses dried marjoram and fresh cracked pepper to provide a savory herb profile.
How long should the gratin bake in the oven?
The dish should bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top becomes golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
Can I substitute the half-and-half?
You can use whole milk for a lighter version, or more heavy cream for a richer texture, though half-and-half provides a balanced creaminess.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this gratin holds up well and can be portioned out into containers for easy meals throughout the week.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze cauliflower gratin?
You can freeze it, but note that the texture of the cream sauce and the cauliflower may change slightly once thawed and reheated.
What main courses pair well with this side dish?
It pairs excellently with roasted chicken, grilled steaks, pork chops, or a simple green salad for a lighter meal.
Do I need to mince the garlic?
Yes, mincing the garlic ensures it distributes evenly throughout the dish and softens properly during the sautéing process.
How do I know when the gratin is fully cooked?
The gratin is finished when the cheese is melted and browned on top and the internal temperature is hot throughout.
Can I use a different type of onion?
A small yellow or white onion is recommended for its sweetness, but shallots can be used for a more delicate flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to the mix?
Certainly! Adding broccoli or sautéed mushrooms would complement the flavors of the cauliflower and ham very well.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, the combination of low-carb vegetables, high-fat dairy, and protein makes it a great option for those on a ketogenic diet.
Why do I need to sauté the onions and garlic first?
Sautéing develops the flavor of the aromatics and ensures they are tender before the dish goes into the oven.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream, though it may add a slightly tangier flavor.
What size baking dish is needed?
A standard 2-quart or 9x9 inch glass or ceramic baking dish is typically sufficient for this recipe.
Should I cover the dish with foil while baking?
No, baking it uncovered allows the cheese to brown and creates a delicious crust on top.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dish, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.
Do I have to use both Swiss and Cheddar cheese?
No, you can use two cups of your favorite single type of cheese if you prefer not to mix them.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
Reheat portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through.