If you’ve been searching for that perfect cheesy, comforting dish that brings bright green broccoli and rich, melty cheddar into perfect harmony, look no further. This Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe is an absolute favorite of mine to share around the table. Imagine tender broccoli smothered in a velvety cheddar sauce, topped with a golden crust of crispy fried onions and Parmesan, creating irresistible textures and bold flavors that everyone will rave about. It’s the ideal side dish to bring a little sparkle to any meal or even stand alone as a cozy vegetarian highlight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe calls for simple, straightforward ingredients that together create layers of flavor and texture. Each component is carefully chosen to balance creaminess, sharp cheddar goodness, and that satisfying crunch on top.
- Fresh broccoli florets (4 cups): The star vegetable adding vibrant color and a satisfying bite.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Essential for creating a smooth roux that thickens the sauce perfectly.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Works magic as the thickening agent for the creamy cheese sauce.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Adds richness and a luscious texture to the gratin.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Elevates the sauce with indulgent creaminess, but can be swapped for half-and-half if you prefer lighter.
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (1 1/2 cups): Brings bold, tangy flavor that’s essential to the dish’s irresistible taste.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle savory warmth to the sauce.
- Onion powder (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances depth without overpowering the delicate broccoli.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances all the flavors just right.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a gentle hint of spice.
- Ground nutmeg (1/8 teaspoon): A secret touch that adds warmth and complexity.
- Crispy fried onions (1/2 cup): Whether store-bought or homemade, these deliver the perfect crunchy topping.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Offers a sharp finish and helps form that gorgeous golden crust.
- Cooking spray or extra butter: For greasing your baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Blanch the Broccoli
Before diving into the creamy sauce, get your broccoli ready. Steam or blanch the fresh florets for 2 to 3 minutes until they’re just tender but still hold that vibrant green color. This step ensures your broccoli won’t be mushy once baked, keeping the dish fresh and appealing. Drain well and set aside while you craft the cheese sauce.
Step 2: Make the Roux and Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour. Cooking this mixture for about a minute forms your roux, the key to that silky smooth sauce. Slowly add in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens, around 3 to 4 minutes. Turn the heat to low and stir in your shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Keep stirring until everything melts together into a perfectly creamy, cheesy sauce that will coat the broccoli beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Broccoli and Cheese Sauce
Now, gently fold the blanched broccoli into your cheese sauce, making sure every floret is luxuriously coated. This step is crucial because it blends the textures and flavors so when baked, each bite is rich with cheesy goodness and fresh broccoli.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour the broccoli-cheddar mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the top generously with crispy fried onions and grated Parmesan cheese. These toppings will add a delightful crunch and savory finish. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top, then let it rest for a few minutes before serving to let all the flavors settle.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up your Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe, consider a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or chives atop the finished dish. A little pop of green really complements the creamy, cheesy flavors and makes it look as lovely as it tastes. A light drizzle of lemon juice can also add a fresh contrast that elevates the whole experience.
Side Dishes
This gratin pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. It’s a knockout side next to roasted chicken or pork, but also fantastic with hearty grains like quinoa or rice to make a full vegetarian meal. For a lighter option, serve alongside a crisp, refreshing salad with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Ready to wow your guests? Try serving the gratin in individual ramekins for personal portions that look elegant on the plate. Another fun idea is to layer the gratin in a casserole with additional vegetables like cauliflower or sliced mushrooms for an extra veggie boost and beautiful variation. Either way, it’s guaranteed to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After you’ve enjoyed your Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This is great if you want to prep early or have a ready-to-go delicious side any day of the week.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the baked gratin in a freezer-safe container. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, place the gratin (covered loosely with foil to prevent burning the crispy onions) in a 350-degree oven until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes. For a quick option, microwave it covered, but keep in mind the crispy topping will be softer.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well if fresh isn’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using to avoid excess moisture making the gratin watery.
Is there a substitute for crispy fried onions?
If you can’t find crispy fried onions, you can make your own by thinly slicing onions, tossing with a little flour, and frying until golden, or substitute with toasted breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of seasoning for crunch.
Can I make this gratin dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and cream alternatives as well as dairy-free cheese substitutes. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be a bit different, but still tasty and comforting.
How spicy is this recipe?
This Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe has no heat from chili or hot spices; the black pepper adds just a gentle warmth, making it family-friendly and perfect for all tastes.
What can I add to make it more of a main dish?
Add cooked quinoa, rice, or even cooked pasta into the cheese sauce before baking. This adds substance and makes it a complete vegetarian main course without sacrificing flavor or comfort.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the comforting, cheesy hug of this Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe to brighten up your meal rotation. It’s approachable, flavorful, and downright delicious, with that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy that keeps everyone coming back for more. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved favorite at your table too!
Print
Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions is a deliciously creamy and cheesy vegetable side dish topped with crunchy fried onions and Parmesan. Perfectly baked until bubbly and golden, this gratin combines fresh broccoli florets with a rich cheddar cheese sauce seasoned with garlic, onion powder, and nutmeg. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, it offers a comforting balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh 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
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Topping
- 1/2 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other
- Cooking spray or extra butter for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish and broccoli: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish using cooking spray or butter. Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 2–3 minutes until they are just tender but still vibrant green. Drain well and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a smooth roux without browning.
- Create the cheese sauce: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3–4 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine broccoli and cheese sauce: Add the steamed broccoli florets to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat all the broccoli evenly with the sauce.
- Assemble the gratin: Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the crispy fried onions and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top to create a crunchy, flavorful crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the gratin is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown.
- Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let the gratin sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly for easier slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to reduce fat content without sacrificing creaminess.
- To make this gratin a more substantial vegetarian main dish, consider adding cooked quinoa or rice to the broccoli and cheese mixture before baking.
- If you prefer, make your own crispy fried onions to customize flavor and reduce preservatives.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; bake just before serving.
