Fried Virginia Ham with “Loaded” Potato-Cauliflower Mash

If this dish doesn’t scream comfort food then I don’t know what does! The smooth and creamy potato/cauliflower “mash” is a meal in itself. Add in some salty-n-sweet fried ham and things just got “Alright, Alright, Alright” (sharing a bit of Matthew McConaughey love!). 

This recipe may not be guilt-free but it is perfect for any gathering, especially Easter. If you are not a big fan of cauliflower, I think this recipe will forever change your mind. Mixing the cauliflower with potatoes, cheese, cream cheese…YUM!

{You can serve it with this sharp mustard on the side for those who wish}

Slightly Adapted from Katlyn’s Kitchen

Ingredients:

• 1 large head cauliflower
• 4 Russet or Yukon Potatoes, peeled (omit if you are watching your carb intake)
  
• ½ stick of butter (Kerrygold is best)
• 4 oz. cream cheese (do not use fat-free)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (do not use fat-free)
• 1/4 cup minced green onions
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cooked until very crisp, crumbled
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
• 3-5 lb ham of your liking
  
• Salt & pepper

Directions

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil.  Add a pinch of  salt.
2. Peel and dice potatoes.  Place inside the boiling salted water until tender (but not cooked through).
3. While the potatoes cook,  cut out stem and core from cauliflower.   Cut cauliflower into small pieces and carefully place in the same pot at the potatoes. Cook until both the potatoes and cauliflower are fork tender. 
4. Heat a frying pan to medium high heat.  Slice your ham and fry each slice 2-3 minutes until caramelized and brown (you can add butter or oil to the pan.  My ham has enough fat on it that I did not add anything).
5. Drain the potato/cauliflower mix and mash with potato masher (if you like chunks) or a hand mix (if you prefer a smooth and creamy).
6. Mix in ½ stick of butter, cream cheese, sour cream, green onion, Parmesan, cheddar cheese and the crumbled bacon. Add salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve with the fried ham and enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by~