Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin)

Name: Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds fresh broccoli florets; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Author: Tessa

Published: July 11, 2025

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Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin) has been a staple in my kitchen ever since I first tried a version of it at a friend’s potluck years ago. I remember being skeptical at first – broccoli in a casserole? But that first bite, with its tender, vibrant green florets enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce and topped with a golden, crunchy crust, completely won me over. It was pure comfort on a plate, and I knew right then and there I had to recreate that magic at home.

Over the years, I’ve tweaked and perfected my own recipe, turning it into the ultimate cheesy side dish that even the most vegetable-averse members of my family adore. It’s got that perfect balance of creamy indulgence and wholesome goodness, making it a star at holiday dinners, weeknight meals, or any gathering where you want to impress with minimal fuss. This dish truly transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary, and I can’t wait to share my secrets with you!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin)

This Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin) isn’t just another side dish; it’s a culinary hug! I genuinely believe you’ll adore this recipe for so many reasons. It’s incredibly forgiving, making it perfect for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices. The flavors are universally appealing, meaning it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Plus, it’s surprisingly versatile – you can easily adapt it to what you have on hand or what your family prefers. It truly hits all the right notes for a delicious and satisfying meal component.

Effortless Elegance: Simple steps, impressive results.
Flavor Explosion: Rich, cheesy, and utterly delicious.
Versatile Star: Perfect for holidays or a cozy weeknight.
Family Favorite: Gets even picky eaters excited about broccoli!

The Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin)

There’s something truly special about a warm, bubbling dish emerging from the oven, and this Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin) delivers that comfort in spades. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, sparking happy memories and satisfied sighs. Its creamy texture and familiar cheesy goodness make it an instant hit with everyone, young and old, creating that perfect, cozy family meal atmosphere.

Gathering Your Ingredients for Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin)

To make this absolutely irresistible Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin), you won’t need a pantry full of exotic items! The beauty of this dish lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly magical. Before we even think about turning on the oven, let’s make sure we have everything we need lined up and ready to go. Having your ingredients prepared beforehand makes the cooking process so much smoother and more enjoyable.

Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin) - detail 1

Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin)

2 pounds fresh broccoli florets: Look for vibrant green, firm heads. You’ll want to trim them into bite-sized pieces. Frozen broccoli can work in a pinch, but fresh truly elevates this dish.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter: This forms the base of our rich, creamy sauce.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Our thickening agent for that luscious béchamel.
2 cups whole milk: For the ultimate creamy texture.
1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: These seasonings are the heart of our flavor profile.
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided: Freshly shredded makes all the difference!
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: For that golden, crispy topping. Panko breadcrumbs are fantastic here for extra crunch.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin)

Now that we have all our wonderful ingredients gathered, it’s time to bring them all together to create this incredible Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin). Don’t be intimidated; each step is straightforward, and I’ll walk you through it. The key is to take your time, especially with the sauce, and you’ll be rewarded with a casserole that’s rich, cheesy, and perfectly cooked every single time. Let’s get cooking!

Preparing Your Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin) for Baking

First things first, preheat your oven to a cozy 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish – this prevents any cheesy goodness from sticking! Next, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Add your fresh broccoli florets and let them cook for just 3-5 minutes. We’re aiming for tender-crisp here, not mushy, so keep an eye on them. Once they’re ready, drain them really well and set them aside. While the broccoli cools a bit, melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for just 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a smooth roux. This step helps cook out the raw flour taste.

Assembling and Baking Your Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin)

Once your roux is ready, gradually whisk in the whole milk until you have a smooth mixture. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce visibly thickens. It should coat the back of a spoon nicely. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in your salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Now for the star: add 1 cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and stir until it’s completely melted and smooth. Place your blanched broccoli florets into the prepared baking dish, then pour that glorious cheese sauce evenly over the top. In a small separate bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese with your breadcrumbs and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving – this helps the sauce set up perfectly.

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Tips for an Irresistible Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin)

Creating a truly unforgettable Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin) isn’t just about following the steps; it’s about a few little tricks that elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. These small adjustments can make a big difference in the final taste and texture, ensuring your casserole is always a showstopper. I’ve learned these through plenty of trial and error, and they’ll help you achieve that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and tender every single time.

Pro Tips for Your Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin)

Fresh Broccoli is Best: While frozen works, fresh broccoli offers superior texture and flavor.
Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty. Freshly grated melts smoother.
Don’t Rush the Roux: Cook your flour and butter for at least a minute to eliminate any raw flour taste.
Thick Sauce is Key: Ensure your cheese sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. This prevents a watery casserole.

Serving Suggestions for Your Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin)

This Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin) is a star on its own, but it truly shines when paired with the right main course. Its rich, cheesy goodness makes it incredibly versatile. I love serving it alongside a perfectly roasted chicken or a simple baked beef or lamb for a comforting family dinner. It also makes a fantastic addition to any holiday spread, complementing dishes like glazed ham or a succulent turkey. For a lighter meal, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or some grilled fish. The possibilities are endless!

Storing and Reheating Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin)

If you’re lucky enough to have any leftover Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin), it stores beautifully! Simply transfer any remaining portions into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, I recommend popping individual servings into the microwave until warmed through, or for larger amounts, cover with foil and bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven until hot and bubbly again. It’ll taste just as delicious the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin)

I get a lot of questions about my recipes, and this Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin) is no exception! It’s such a popular dish that people often want to know how they can adapt it, prepare it in advance, or cater to specific dietary needs. I’ve compiled some of the most common inquiries here to help you make this cheesy broccoli gratin exactly how you like it, with all the confidence of a seasoned home cook.

Can I make Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin) ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin) up to 24 hours in advance, right up to the point of baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes beforehand to let it come closer to room temperature, then bake as directed, potentially adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

What are some variations for this Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin) recipe?

This Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin) is wonderfully adaptable! For different flavors, try swapping half the cheddar for Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even some Parmesan. You could also add cooked, shredded beef or lamb for a heartier meal. A pinch of smoked paprika in the sauce or a dash of hot sauce can give it a little kick. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Is this Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin) gluten-free?

With a couple of simple swaps, this Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin) can easily be made gluten-free! Replace the all-purpose flour in the roux with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (ensure it contains xanthan gum for thickening). For the topping, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this delicious cheesy broccoli dish worry-free!

Estimated Nutritional Information for Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin)

For those mindful of their dietary intake, I’ve put together an estimated nutritional breakdown for this Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin). Please remember that these figures are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Per serving (about 1 cup), you’re looking at roughly 320 calories, with 22g of fat, 18g of carbohydrates, and a satisfying 15g of protein. It’s a comforting dish that offers a good balance of energy!

Share Your Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin) Experience

I absolutely adore hearing how my recipes turn out in your kitchens! If you give this Creamy Broccoli Casserole (Gratin) a try, please come back and leave a comment below. Did you love it? Did you make any fun variations? Don’t forget to rate the recipe and, if you snap a photo, share it on social media! Tag me – I’d love to see your delicious creations!