Description
A creamy and cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Gratin topped with crispy fried onions, perfect as a comforting vegetable side dish. This recipe features tender broccoli florets coated in a rich cheddar cheese sauce, baked until bubbly and golden with a delightful crunchy topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Broccoli
- 1 1/2 pounds broccoli florets
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch or similar baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 2 to 3 minutes until they are just tender but still bright green. Drain thoroughly and set aside to keep the texture crisp-tender.
- Make Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, forming a roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add Dairy: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes, creating a smooth and creamy base for the cheese sauce.
- Incorporate Cheese and Spices: Stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and cheese is fully melted.
- Toss Broccoli in Sauce: Add the prepared broccoli to the cheese sauce and gently toss to ensure all florets are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the broccoli and cheese sauce mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top the gratin with crispy fried onions for a delicious crunchy crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the gratin is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the gratin sit for 5 minutes after baking to set slightly, then serve warm as a comforting side dish.
Notes
- You can substitute cauliflower or use a broccoli-cauliflower mix for variation.
- For a richer flavor, add a little grated Parmesan cheese to the cheese sauce.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave, making it ideal for meal prep.
