Potato and Broccoli Casserole with Cooked Ham

This comforting baked dish feels especially good during pregnancy. Broccoli and potatoes provide valuable vitamins and fiber, while the mild sauce is gentle on the stomach. The casserole gives you cozy, steady energy for your day.

Ingredients (for 2 to 3 portions)

• 500 g potatoes (waxy)
• 400 g broccoli
• 100 g cooked ham
• 30 g butter
• 30 g flour
• 400 ml pasteurized milk
• 100 g grated cheese (made from pasteurized milk, like Gouda or Cheddar)
• A pinch of salt, pepper, and nutmeg

Preparation

1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin slices.
2. Divide the broccoli into small florets and cut the cooked ham into cubes.
3. Parboil the potato slices and broccoli florets in lightly salted water for about eight minutes.
4. For the white sauce, melt the butter in a small saucepan and whisk in the flour.
5. Gradually pour in the milk, let it come to a brief boil, and season mildly with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
6. Layer the vegetables and ham in a baking dish, pour the sauce over them, and sprinkle the cheese on top.
7. Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius for about 25 minutes until the cheese is golden brown.

Good to know

This casserole is wonderfully easy to prepare in the morning and simply pop into the oven later. You can store leftovers covered in the fridge and enjoy them the next day, making sure they are heated thoroughly. You can also easily swap the cooked ham for a handful of peas or diced carrots.

If things feel difficult right now

Many expectant mothers experience heartburn or an unsettled stomach, especially with large meals. In this case, simply enjoy a small plate and save the rest for later. If you are dealing with strong nausea, you can leave out the ham and prepare the sauce with a little less butter.

Note

For individual questions about your diet or if you experience persistent discomfort during pregnancy, it is always best to consult your obstetrician, gynecologist, or midwife.