Prep the oven and dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or oil.
Dry the “hashbrowns”: If using riced cauliflower, squeeze out excess moisture using a clean towel or paper towels.
If using shredded turnips, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let sit 5–10 minutes, then squeeze dry. This step helps avoid a watery casserole.
Sauté aromatics: Heat the oil in a skillet over medium. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft.
Stir in garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Warm the ham: Add diced ham to the skillet and cook 2–3 minutes to render a bit of fat and build flavor. Remove from heat.
Make the custard base: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, heavy cream, sour cream, Dijon, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine: Add the riced cauliflower or shredded turnips, cooked onion/garlic/ham mixture, chives, and both cheeses (reserve a small handful of cheese for topping). Stir until evenly combined.
Assemble: Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Top with the reserved cheese and, if using, sprinkle Parmesan for extra browning.
Bake: Bake for 30–40 minutes, until the center is set and the top is golden and bubbling. If the top browns too fast, tent loosely with foil.
Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra chives or green onions.
Serve warm.