Creamy Cauliflower and Broccoli Gratin Delight
Indulge in this creamy cauliflower and broccoli au gratin, a comforting side dish that brings together tender florets of cauliflower and broccoli enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce. Topped with a crispy layer of Ritz cracker crumbs and Parmesan, this recipe is a perfect addition to any family meal or holiday gathering. Simple to prepare in the microwave, it's a delicious way to get your veggies in while satisfying your cheese cravings. Enjoy sharing this delectable dish with friends and family!
N/A
Servings
195
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cauliflower florets
1 lb (large, cut into florets)
Broccoli florets
1 lb (large, cut into florets)
Water
1/2 cup (for steaming)
Light cream cheese
4 ounces (cubed)
Low-fat milk
1/4 cup
Low-fat sour cream
1/2 cup
Shredded cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups
Ritz crackers
10 (crushed)
Grated parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons
Instructions
1
Begin by placing the cauliflower and broccoli florets in a 2-quart microwaveable dish. Add 1/2 cup of water and cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Microwave on HIGH for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Carefully drain any remaining water and set the vegetables aside.
2
In a separate 2-cup microwave-safe measuring cup or medium bowl, combine the cream cheese and low-fat milk. Microwave for 1 minute, or until the cream cheese has melted. Stir the mixture until well blended. Next, add the low-fat sour cream and mix thoroughly until smooth.
3
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the tender cauliflower and broccoli. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
4
Return the dish to the microwave and heat for an additional 2 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbling.
5
In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the cheese and vegetable layer.
6
If desired, return the dish to the microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes to crisp up the topping before serving. Alternatively, you can broil the dish for 2-3 minutes for a golden crust.
Nutrition Information
12.6g
Fat
8.2g
Carbs
8.2g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creamy Cauliflower and Broccoli Gratin Delight?
It is a comforting vegetable side dish featuring tender cauliflower and broccoli florets enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce and topped with a crispy Ritz cracker and Parmesan crust.
What are the primary vegetables in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1 lb of cauliflower florets and 1 lb of broccoli florets.
Is this a microwave-friendly recipe?
Yes, this recipe is specifically designed to be prepared and cooked in the microwave for convenience.
How long should I microwave the vegetables?
Microwave the cauliflower and broccoli on HIGH for 8 to 10 minutes or until tender.
What type of cheese is used in the sauce?
The sauce uses light cream cheese and it is topped with shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese.
What ingredients make up the crispy topping?
The topping consists of 10 crushed Ritz crackers mixed with 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese.
How many calories are in a serving of this gratin?
Each serving contains approximately 195 calories.
How much fat is in this recipe?
The dish contains 12.6g of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate content?
There are 8.2g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein does this dish provide?
Each serving provides 8.2g of protein.
What size dish should I use?
A 2-quart microwaveable dish is recommended for this recipe.
Do I need to add water when steaming the vegetables?
Yes, add 1/2 cup of water to the dish before microwaving the vegetables.
How do I make the cream sauce base?
Combine 4 ounces of cubed light cream cheese and 1/4 cup of low-fat milk, microwave for 1 minute, stir until blended, and then mix in 1/2 cup of low-fat sour cream.
Can I broil the gratin for a better crust?
Yes, for a golden crust, you can broil the dish for 2-3 minutes after adding the cracker topping.
What is the preparation for the cauliflower and broccoli?
Both the cauliflower and broccoli should be cut into large florets.
How much cheddar cheese do I need?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
Should the dish be covered while microwaving vegetables?
Yes, cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap during the initial steaming phase.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 9 ingredients required.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include cauliflower, broccoli, gratin, vegetable side dish, cheesy, comfort food, easy recipe, microwave recipe, and healthy.
Is low-fat sour cream used in this recipe?
Yes, 1/2 cup of low-fat sour cream is used to make the sauce smooth.
How much milk is needed for the sauce?
You will need 1/4 cup of low-fat milk.
What do I do after the vegetables are tender?
Carefully drain any remaining water from the dish before adding the cheese sauce.
How long do I heat the dish after adding the cheddar?
Microwave for an additional 2 minutes or until the cheese has melted and is bubbling.
Can I microwave the cracker topping to crisp it?
Yes, you can return the dish to the microwave for 1-2 minutes after adding the cracker mixture to help it crisp up.
Is light cream cheese necessary?
The recipe specifies light cream cheese to keep the nutritional profile leaner, but regular cream cheese would also work.
Is this dish suitable for holidays?
Yes, the description suggests it is a perfect addition to family meals or holiday gatherings.
How much Parmesan cheese is required?
The recipe uses 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese.
How is the Ritz cracker topping prepared?
Crush 10 Ritz crackers and mix them in a small bowl with the Parmesan cheese.
What is the texture of the vegetables in this dish?
The vegetables are steamed until tender before being baked with the sauce.
Can I serve this to children?
Yes, it is described as a delicious way to get kids and family to eat their vegetables.