Broccoli Au Gratin
A warm, cheesy, and flavorful vegetable side dish, Broccoli Au Gratin is an indulgent way to enjoy your veggies. With the creamy cheese sauce, aromatic spring onions, and tender broccoli, this recipe comes together in less than an hour and is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering. The addition of a crunchy breadcrumb topping with fresh coriander leaves adds an extra layer of texture and flavor, making this dish irresistible. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to creating this creamy, savory delight that will be the star of your table.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mushroom | 3/4 cup |
| Spring onion | 1/2 cup |
| Butter | 6 tbsp |
| Plain flour | 1/2 tbsp |
| Milk | 3/4 cup |
| Cheddar cheese (grated) | 1 cup |
| Broccoli florets | 3 cups |
| Fresh butter | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh coriander leaves (chopped) | 1 1/4 tbsp |
| Breadcrumbs | 2 tbsp |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 825.6 kcal |
| Total Fat | 71.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 44.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 199 mg |
| Sodium | 903.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 29.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.9 g |
| Sugars | 3.3 g |
| Protein | 20.2 g |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Mushroom and Onion Mixture:
- Heat 3 tablespoons of butter in a wok or large frying pan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the chopped spring onions and sliced mushrooms.
- Stir-fry the onions and mushrooms until the onions are browned and the mushrooms begin to release their moisture and soften, which should take about 5-6 minutes.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh basil (optional) and set the mixture aside for later use.
-
-
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, place the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Microwave on HIGH for about 30 seconds, or until the butter is fully melted.
- Stir in the plain flour and microwave for an additional 20 seconds on HIGH to form a roux. Mix thoroughly to prevent any lumps.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking the mixture. Continue cooking on HIGH in 2-minute intervals, whisking well between each interval to ensure the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. This should take about 4 minutes in total.
- Once the sauce has thickened, add the grated cheddar cheese and stir until melted and incorporated. Set aside to keep warm.
-
Cook the Broccoli:
- In a microwave-safe dish, place the broccoli florets in a single layer. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
- Microwave on HIGH for 4 minutes or until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
-
Assemble the Dish:
- Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the cooked broccoli. Make sure the broccoli is well coated with the cheesy goodness.
- Next, sprinkle the onion and mushroom mixture over the top of the broccoli, ensuring an even distribution.
-
Prepare the Crunchy Breadcrumb Topping:
- In a separate frying pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and sauté them until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the chopped fresh coriander leaves for a burst of flavor.
-
Final Touch:
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb and coriander topping generously over the cheesy broccoli mixture.
- Place the assembled dish in the microwave for 1 more minute to allow the flavors to meld together and ensure the cheese sauce is piping hot.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once everything is perfectly heated and the breadcrumb topping is golden, remove from the microwave and serve immediately.
- This Broccoli Au Gratin is best enjoyed hot and fresh, paired with your favorite main dish for a complete meal.
Tips for Best Results:
- For extra creaminess, you can substitute half-and-half for the milk in the cheese sauce.
- You can add some garlic to the sautéed mushroom and onion mixture for additional depth of flavor.
- If you prefer a more indulgent topping, add a layer of grated cheese over the breadcrumbs before microwaving for a crispy, cheesy crust.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
This Broccoli Au Gratin makes a wonderful side dish for a variety of main courses. Consider pairing it with:
- Grilled chicken or roast turkey for a hearty and balanced meal.
- A fresh, crisp green salad to add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gratin.
- Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls for dipping into the creamy cheese sauce.
Conclusion:
This Broccoli Au Gratin recipe is a simple yet indulgent vegetable dish that brings together the richness of cheddar cheese, the earthiness of mushrooms, and the freshness of broccoli. The creamy cheese sauce and crunchy breadcrumb topping elevate this dish into a delightful comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side for a weeknight dinner or as a festive treat at a holiday meal, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this cheesy, veggie-packed delight!
