Au Gratin Vegetables
Creamy au gratin vegetables featuring tender broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms, and carrots topped with sharp Cheddar cheese, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1-quart Pyroceram casserole, combine broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms, carrots, onion, and water.
- Cover and microwave at high for 5 to 7 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp, stirring once.
- Set aside.
- In a saucepan, mix flour, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually stir in milk and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Add shredded Cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
- Pour cheese sauce over the cooked vegetables.
- Sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired and bake or broil until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of cream cheese to the cheese sauce. You can substitute the vegetables based on what you have on hand; green beans or zucchini would work well. To enhance flavor, try adding garlic powder or nutmeg to the cheese sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and milk.
Serving Suggestions
This au gratin vegetables dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted chicken or grilled fish. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve it alongside quinoa or a fresh salad. It also complements other dishes like Kat'S Broccoli Casserole, providing a delightful mix of flavors and textures for a family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for a few minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out, then uncover for the last few minutes to crisp the top.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Au Gratin Vegetables contains roughly 512 calories, with 20g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), calcium (47% of the Daily Value), and protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2348mg per serving (102% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and cheese sauce ahead of time. Simply combine them and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if the mixture is cold.
What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
You can substitute cheddar cheese with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. If you are looking for a dairy-free option, consider using vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cheese sauce. Alternatively, try adding a dash of hot sauce before pouring it over the vegetables for a flavorful kick that complements the dish.
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).