Creamy Broccoli Gratin with Cheddar Topping
This delightful Creamy Broccoli Gratin is a perfect blend of tender broccoli and a rich cheddar cheese sauce, all topped with a crispy bread crumb layer. Perfect as a side dish for any meal, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a sophisticated dish that everyone will love. It’s not only comforting and delicious but also an excellent way to incorporate vegetables into your diet. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a holiday feast, or just a weeknight treat, this gratin will surely impress.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Broccoli
2 pounds (cut into florets)
Condensed Cheddar Cheese Soup
10.75 ounces (canned)
Milk
1/4 cup (whole or low-fat)
Butter
2 tablespoons (melted)
Bread Crumbs
2 tablespoons (buttered)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the broccoli. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the florets are just tender but still bright green. Drain well and set aside.
3
In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cheddar cheese soup and milk until smooth. Stir in the melted butter.
4
Arrange the cooked broccoli evenly in a baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce mixture over the broccoli, ensuring it is well-coated.
5
Sprinkle the buttered bread crumbs evenly on top of the cheese sauce.
6
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
7
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy side dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Broccoli Gratin with Cheddar Topping?
It is a delightful side dish that blends tender broccoli florets with a rich cheddar cheese sauce, finished with a crispy bread crumb layer.
How many servings does this broccoli gratin recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long should I boil the broccoli florets?
Boil the broccoli for approximately 5 minutes until they are just tender but still bright green.
What are the main ingredients for the cheese sauce?
The sauce consists of condensed cheddar cheese soup, milk, and melted butter.
What kind of bread crumbs should I use for the topping?
The recipe calls for buttered bread crumbs to achieve a golden and crispy finish.
How long does the gratin need to bake?
It needs to bake uncovered for approximately 20 minutes.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, but ensure it is thawed and drained well to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
Is this dish suitable for a holiday meal?
Absolutely, its sophisticated flavor and presentation make it perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts.
Do I need to cover the dish while it is in the oven?
No, the dish should be baked uncovered so the top can become golden and bubbly.
What type of milk is recommended for this recipe?
You can use either whole milk or low-fat milk depending on your preference.
How many ingredients are required in total?
This recipe uses 5 main ingredients: broccoli, condensed cheddar cheese soup, milk, butter, and bread crumbs.
How do I know when the gratin is finished cooking?
The gratin is ready when the cheese sauce is bubbly and the bread crumb topping is golden brown.
Can I add other vegetables to this gratin?
Yes, vegetables like cauliflower or carrots would pair well with the broccoli and cheddar sauce.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a sophisticated dish.
What is the first step in preparing the broccoli?
The first step is to cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
How do I prepare the cheese sauce mixture?
Combine the condensed cheddar cheese soup and milk in a mixing bowl until smooth, then stir in the melted butter.
Should the broccoli be drained after boiling?
Yes, it is important to drain the broccoli well before placing it in the baking dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the broccoli and sauce in advance, then add the crumbs and bake right before serving.
What is a good substitute for cheddar cheese soup?
While cheddar cheese soup is preferred, you could use cream of broccoli or cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
Is the broccoli gratin a vegetarian dish?
Yes, this recipe is categorized under Vegetable and does not contain meat.
How should I serve the gratin?
Allow it to cool slightly after baking to let the sauce set, then serve it as a cheesy side dish.
Can I use panko instead of regular bread crumbs?
Yes, panko bread crumbs will provide an extra crunchy texture to the topping.
How much broccoli is needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires 2 pounds of broccoli.
What category does this recipe fall into?
It is categorized as a Vegetable dish.
Can I store leftovers of this gratin?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the texture of the topping.
Does this recipe contain any sugar?
Based on the ingredients listed, there is no added sugar in this recipe.
Can I use a different type of cheese for the topping?
Yes, you can sprinkle extra shredded cheddar or parmesan over the bread crumbs for more cheesy flavor.
Is this a good way to get children to eat vegetables?
Yes, the creamy and cheesy sauce makes broccoli very appealing to children.