Description
This creamy broccoli casserole, also known as gratin, is a comforting and cheesy side dish perfect for any meal. It features tender broccoli florets baked in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with golden breadcrumbs.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-5 minutes, until tender-crisp. Drain well and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
- Place the cooked broccoli florets in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the broccoli.
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese with the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can use a combination of cheeses, such as Gruyere or Parmesan.
- If you prefer a crispy topping, you can toast the breadcrumbs in a dry pan for a few minutes before sprinkling them on.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 calories
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 65mg