Cauliflower Cheese Casserole

This is an easy cauliflower casserole, made with American or mild Cheddar cheese sauce and a little ham, along with a bread crumb topping.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 to 20 Minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets (about 16 ounces frozen florets)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2/3 cup milk
1 egg yolk, slightly beaten
8 ounces American or mild cheddar cheese, shredded or cubed
salt and pepper
1/2 teaspoon prepared mustard or spicy brown mustard
6 slices toasted bread
4 ounces thinly sliced ham, optional
1/4 cup soft bread crumbs

Instructions:

Cover cauliflower with salted water and bring to a boil. Boil for about 5 minutes or just until tender. If using frozen cauliflower, follow package directions. Drain, reserving 2/3 cup of the cooking liquid. Keep cauliflower warm while making sauce.

Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat; stir in 2 tablespoons flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Gradually add the 2/3 cup milk and the reserved 2/3 cup cooking liquid. Remove from heat and quickly stir in lightly beaten egg yolk and cheese. Return to heat and season with salt, pepper and mustard. Heat through until cheese is melted.

Butter a shallow baking dish. Arrange the 6 slices of toast in 1 layer (trim to fit if dish is an oval shape). Top toast layer with sliced ham, then top with cauliflower. Pour sauce evenly over the casserole then sprinkle with bread crumbs. Broil about 6 inches from heat (500 to 550° ) for 3 to 5 minutes, or until browned.