The Humpherys Family

Ham and Broccoli with Cauliflower Sauce

Source  Our Best Bites
Recipe Added:  1/14/2012
1 tsp olive oil
1 small head cauliflower, chopped
6 garlic cloves, chopped
1/2-3/4 cup diced onion
Kosher salt, black pepper
4 tsp flour
4 cups skim milk
 1/4 tsp nutmeg
2 cups Parmesan, grated
1/2 pound pasta shells or bowties
1 cup sliced smoked ham, chopped
1 bunch broccoli, chopped (3-5 c)
Optional: 1/2 cup toasted bread crumbs
Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add cauliflower, garlic, onion, and 1/2 tsp salt; cook until softened but not brown, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle with flour; stir to coat well. Gradually stir in milk; bring to a boil.

Reduce heat; gently simmer until cauliflower is very soft, about 15 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes. Transfer all to a blender, and puree with nutmeg and half the cheese until smooth, about 2 minutes.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook pasta until slightly tender but not fully cooked, about 5 minutes. Drain well; return to pot. Add ham, broccoli, and cauliflower sauce; toss to combine.

Transfer to an ovenproof 3 1/2 quart baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining cheese, and bake until bubbling in center, about 30 minutes. Heat broiler, and broil until golden brown on top, 1-2 minutes. Divide among dishes, top with breadcrumbs (if using), and serve immediately.
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