Creamy, cheesy broccoli with a crispy breadcrumb topping.

Broccoli au Gratin is a beloved dish that combines tender broccoli with a creamy, cheesy sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer. Its origins trace back to French cuisine, where “au gratin” refers to dishes topped with cheese and breadcrumbs and baked until golden. This recipe’s rich flavor comes from the blend of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, which melt into a luscious sauce, while the Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang. The crispy breadcrumb topping provides a delightful crunch, contrasting with the smooth, cheesy sauce. Serve Broccoli au Gratin as a comforting side dish with roasted chicken, beef, or pork. It also pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Ingredients

• 4 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat oven
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the cheese sauce
   • In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
   • Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form.
   • Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine and bake
   • Place the steamed or blanched broccoli florets in a greased baking dish.
   • Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the broccoli.
   • If using, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
4. Bake
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
5. Serve
   • Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a comforting side dish!

This Broccoli au Gratin is creamy, cheesy, and perfect for complementing a variety of main courses.

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