LOW CARB Cauliflower Au Gratin

Three cheeses and ham give a rich depth of flavor to bland cauliflower. The meat may be omitted, if necessary. Cauliflower gratin makes a great side dish, but consider it also for breakfast or brunch. Great for low-carb diets.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets (discard core and large stems)
• 1 (14 ounces) can chicken or vegetable broth (or homemade - about 1-3/4 cups)
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 2 ounces cream cheese
• 2 Tbsp sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided use
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions, white and green parts
• 2 large eggs
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped ham, smoked turkey breast, or cooked bacon pieces
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Sweet Hungarian paprika
• Vegetable spray

Preparation:
Place cauliflower florets in a large saucepan. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer until very tender, about 12 minutes. Drain thoroughly through a fine sieve and return to the pot over low heat. Cook about 2 more minutes to dry out excess moisture, stirring constantly. (It's okay that it breaks apart.)

Pour cauliflower into food processor fitted with the metal blade. Add butter, cream cheese, sour cream, half of the cheddar cheese, green onion, salt, pepper, and eggs. Pulse to combine. Fold in ham, turkey or bacon pieces.

Spray an oven-proof casserole with vegetable oil. Pour cauliflower mixture into casserole dish and sprinkle evenly with remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese. Dust lightly with paprika. Bake in a preheated 375 F. oven for about 45 minutes.

Yield: 6 to 8 servings