Marry Berry Parma Ham and Cauliflower Cheese Parcels are made with cauliflower florets, cream cheese, cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, and Parma ham. This recipe creates savory, cheesy parcels wrapped in crisp ham. It takes about 40 minutes to prepare and serves 6.
Marry Berry Parma Ham and Cauliflower Cheese Parcels Ingredients
- 300g (10½oz) cauliflower, broken into small florets
- 150g (5oz) full-fat cream cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 75g (3oz) mature Cheddar, coarsely grated
- 25g (1oz) Parmesan, coarsely grated
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 12 slices Parma ham
How To Make Marry Berry Parma Ham and Cauliflower Cheese Parcels
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 220°C/200°C Fan/Gas 7 and line a baking sheet with non-stick paper.
- Cook Cauliflower: Boil cauliflower in salted water for 3–4 minutes, then refresh under cold water and drain well.
- Make Cheese Filling: Mix cream cheese, egg, Cheddar, Parmesan, and mustard. Season and stir in cauliflower gently.
- Assemble Parcels: Cross two slices of Parma ham. Spoon 1/6 of mixture into the center and fold the ham to encase it. Repeat for all.
- Bake the Parcels: Place on baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes until crisp.
- Serve: Serve warm with a fresh green salad.
Recipe Tips
- Cool Cauliflower Completely: Refreshing under cold water prevents overcooking.
- Use Full-Fat Dairy: Full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture and flavor.
- Do Not Overmix: Stir gently to keep cauliflower florets whole.
- Prep Ahead: Parcels can be made up to 6 hours before baking.
- No Freezing: This dish is not suitable for freezing due to the texture of the dairy and cauliflower.
What To Serve With Cauliflower Cheese Parcels
These cheesy parcels are excellent served with a fresh green salad, grilled asparagus, or a side of roasted cherry tomatoes. As a main course, pair them with garlic bread or a light pasta dish.
How To Store Cauliflower Cheese Parcels
Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a hot oven for 8–10 minutes to crisp up.
Freeze: Not suitable for freezing due to cream cheese and cooked cauliflower.
Cauliflower Cheese Parcels Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 280
- Total Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Sodium: 690mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but thaw and drain well before using to avoid watery filling.
Can I replace Parma ham?
You can use prosciutto or another thinly sliced cured ham.
Is this keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in fat and protein, making it suitable for keto diets.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Use grilled zucchini strips instead of ham and ensure cheeses are vegetarian.
Can I prep this in advance?
Yes, assemble up to 6 hours ahead and bake when ready.
Marry Berry Parma Ham and Cauliflower Cheese Parcels
Description
Creamy, cheesy cauliflower filling wrapped in crisp Parma ham — a rich, savory parcel perfect as a side or light main.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 220°C and line a baking sheet.
- Boil cauliflower for 3–4 mins; refresh under cold water and drain.
- Mix cheeses, egg, mustard; season and stir in cauliflower gently.
- Cross 2 Parma ham slices, spoon filling in center, fold to enclose.p
- Place parcels on tray; bake 15–18 mins until crisp.
- Serve warm with salad.
Notes
- Chill cauliflower fully to stop it overcooking.
- Do not overmix the filling to preserve texture.
- Full-fat ingredients deliver better flavor and structure.
- Best served fresh; avoid freezing.