Au Gratin Vegetable Dish
A creamy, cheesy vegetable dish with a crispy topping, perfect for family dinners or special occasions, showcasing rich flavors and tender cooked vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute green pepper, celery, and onion in margarine.
- Slowly add flour, reserved vegetable liquid, salt, pepper, and Cheddar cheese; cook until thickened and cheese melts.
- Pour some of the cheese sauce into a 10 x 6-inch baking pan.
- Top with cooked vegetables.
- Pour remaining sauce over the vegetables.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and paprika.
- Bake in the oven or broil 4 inches from heat until lightly browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the vegetable mixture. For a creamier texture, substitute half of the Cheddar with a cream cheese blend. If you're short on time, pre-cooked frozen vegetables can also be used. Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere for a unique twist on this classic dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Au Gratin Vegetable Dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread, making it a perfect side for grilled meats or roasted chicken. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside quinoa or rice. Consider complementing it with a light drink like Fresh Strawberry Cooler to balance the richness of the cheeses.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Au Gratin Vegetable Dish contains roughly 364 calories, with 17g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1757mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of cooked ones?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables, but you'll need to cook them first to ensure they're tender before adding them to the gratin. Steaming or sauteing the vegetables until just tender will work well, maintaining their vibrant colors and flavors.
What type of vegetables work best for this dish?
You can use a variety of vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, or green beans. The key is to choose vegetables that hold their shape and texture well after baking. Mixing different colors and types can also enhance the dish visually and nutritionally.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. Assemble it up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).