Discover the Hearty Harvest Delight, a comforting crozets casserole with ham, sage, and seasonal veggies. Perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings!
Hearty Harvest Delight: Savory Crozets Casserole with Ham and Sage
Introduction:
Embrace the flavors of autumn with this comforting and hearty dish: Hearty Harvest Delight. This savory crozets casserole, enriched with succulent ham and aromatic sage, is a perfect way to celebrate the bounty of the harvest season. This dish combines traditional Alpine pasta with creamy sauce and earthy nuances, making it an irresistible option for a family dinner or a cozy gathering. Intrigued by its rustic charm and simple elegance? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups crozets (a type of French buckwheat pasta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crozets:
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the crozets and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Ham:
- Add the diced ham to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ham is lightly browned.
- Incorporate Herbs:
- Stir in the chopped sage and thyme, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to release their flavors.
- Create the Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
- Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked crozets, sautéed ham mixture, and the creamy sauce. Mix well.
- Stir in the grated Gruyère cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the mixture into it, spreading it evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of the casserole.
- Bake:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy the delightful, savory flavors of your hearty harvest masterpiece.
Conclusion:
This Hearty Harvest Delight is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comforting flavors and the joy of shared moments around the table. The combination of savory ham, aromatic sage, and creamy cheese sauce elevates the humble crozets into a delightful dish that’s sure to please. Perfect as a main course or a substantial side, this casserole will fill your home with warmth and invite everyone to savor the best of autumn. Happy cooking!
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Discover the Hearty Harvest Delight, a comforting crozets casserole with ham, sage, and seasonal veggies. Perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings!