A delightful and creamy casserole combining ham, cauliflower, and a cheesy sauce, perfect for a comforting meal.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Ensure the oven is fully preheated before placing the casserole inside for even cooking.
Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, then set aside.
Avoid overcooking the cauliflower to maintain a slight crunch.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Cooking the flour removes the raw taste and thickens the sauce.
Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens.
Whisk continuously to avoid lumps in the sauce.
Stir in the sour cream and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Remove the saucepan from heat before adding the cheese to prevent curdling.
Combine the steamed cauliflower, ham, and mushrooms in a mixing bowl.
Mix gently to avoid breaking the cauliflower florets.
Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and pour the cheese sauce over it.
Spread the sauce evenly to cover all the ingredients.
Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top.
For extra flavor, mix the breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter before sprinkling.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Check the casserole halfway through to ensure even browning.
Let cool slightly before serving.
Allowing the casserole to cool slightly makes it easier to serve.