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Healthy Broccoli Gratin Recipe Easy Side Dish for Dinner

Healthy Broccoli Gratin - featured image

A comforting yet wholesome side dish featuring tender broccoli coated in a creamy, flavorful sauce with a cheesy, golden crust. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday spreads.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds fresh broccoli, cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups low-fat milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Gruyère)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Drizzle of olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the broccoli for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth paste.
  4. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the shredded cheese (reserving some for topping), salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Remove from heat once smooth.
  5. Arrange the blanched broccoli in a baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top, ensuring all florets are coated.
  6. In a mixing bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture over the broccoli and sauce. Add the reserved cheese on top.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.
  8. Let the gratin cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

[‘Blanching keeps the broccoli crisp-tender; avoid overcooking.’, ‘Season the cheese sauce generously with salt and pepper for balanced flavor.’, ‘Use freshly shredded cheese to avoid a grainy sauce.’, ‘If the topping browns too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil.’, ‘Assemble ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before baking.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Healthy Broccoli Gratin, broccoli side dish, cheesy broccoli recipe, vegetable gratin, easy dinner side dish