Easy Cheesy Baked Broccoli with White Sauce Au Gratin

Craving Comfort Food? Try This Amazing Broccoli au Gratin!

Ready for a dish that’s both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! Our Broccoli with White Sauce au Gratin is the perfect combination of tender broccoli, a rich and creamy white sauce, and a golden, bubbly cheese topping. It’s comfort food at its finest and guaranteed to impress!

Why You’ll Love It

• The creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly complements the slightly earthy flavor of the broccoli.
• It’s a relatively simple recipe, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
• The au gratin topping adds a delightful textural contrast to the tender broccoli.
• It’s a great way to get your veggies in while enjoying a decadent dish.
• This recipe can easily be customized to your preferences – add different cheeses, spices, or vegetables!

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets our Broccoli with White Sauce Au Gratin apart is the balance of flavors and textures. We use a classic béchamel sauce as the base, infusing it with a hint of nutmeg and Dijon mustard to add complexity. The generous use of a sharp cheddar cheese on top, combined with the subtle sweetness of roasted garlic in the sauce, makes every bite unforgettable. This isn’t just another casserole; it’s a carefully crafted dish designed to be truly irresistible.

Ingredient List

• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 3 cups of whole milk, warmed
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced (or roasted for extra flavor)
• 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: breadcrumbs for extra crunch
• Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon juice, for extra flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Steam or boil the broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, creating a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the warm milk until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the salt, pepper, nutmeg, and Dijon mustard. Add the minced (or roasted) garlic. Remove from heat.
6. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth, 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional).
7. Add the cooked broccoli to the cheese sauce and gently fold to coat.
8. Pour the broccoli mixture into a greased 8×8 inch baking dish (or similar size).
9. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs if desired.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Let stand for a few minutes before serving.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Broccoli au Gratin! Here are a few ideas:

• Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon for extra richness.
• Use a combination of different cheeses, such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the broccoli! You want it to be tender-crisp so it doesn’t become mushy in the oven.
• Warm the milk before adding it to the roux to prevent lumps.
• For a richer flavor, roast the garlic before adding it to the white sauce.
• Grate your own cheese from a block for the best melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often has cellulose and doesn’t melt as well.
• If the topping is browning too quickly, loosely tent the dish with foil to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, but make sure to thaw it thoroughly and drain any excess water before adding it to the sauce.
• Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, assemble the dish and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed before serving. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Can I substitute the milk? You can use half-and-half or even cream for a richer sauce, but keep in mind it may be thicker, so add less. For a lighter version, you could use 2% milk or even a dairy-free milk option, but the sauce may not be as rich.
• What if I don’t have Dijon mustard? You can omit it or use a small amount of yellow mustard, but the flavor won’t be the same. A little bit of dry mustard powder could also work in a pinch.
• How should i store the left overs? Store leftover broccoli au gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Variations and Customization Options

This recipe is a fantastic base for all sorts of creative twists! Here are a few ways you can customize it:

• Add Different Veggies: Toss in some cauliflower, asparagus, or even spinach alongside the broccoli.
• Spice It Up: Include a dash of hot sauce or some chili flakes for a kick.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for the béchamel sauce.
• Add Protein: Mix in some shredded chicken, ham, or cooked sausage for a heartier meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Broccoli with White Sauce Au Gratin is delicious on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Serve it alongside roasted chicken, steak, or pork. It’s also a great side dish for holiday gatherings or potlucks. For a complete vegetarian meal, enjoy it with a fresh salad and some crusty bread.

Conclusion

This Broccoli with White Sauce au Gratin is more than just a side dish; it’s a comforting, flavorful, and impressive recipe that everyone will love. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Give it a try and share your delicious creations with us! Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more amazing recipes!

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• Swiss Chard and Eggs Benedict
• Stuffed Mushrooms

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