Broccoli Au Gratin
Broccoli Au Gratin is a creamy, cheesy vegetable side dish with tender broccoli florets topped with a crunchy cracker crumb crust. Its rich flavor and satisfying texture make it a perfect accompaniment for family dinners or holiday gatherings, appealing to cheese lovers and vegetable enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cooked and drained chopped broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, and shredded sharp Cheddar cheese in a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Top the mixture with 1/4 cup cracker crumbs and 2 tablespoons butter.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding cooked bacon bits or sautéed onions to the broccoli mixture. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar cheese with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste. If you prefer a lighter version, use a low-fat cream of mushroom soup and reduced-fat cheese. Make sure to drain the broccoli well to avoid a watery dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Au Gratin can be served as a delicious side dish alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish, making it a versatile addition to any meal. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like meatloaf or a hearty stew. For a vegetarian meal, serve it with a fresh garden salad or alongside Zucchini Walnut Bread for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure they are hot throughout.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Au Gratin contains roughly 436 calories, with 24g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (58% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 665mg per serving (29% 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 broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Just steam it until tender, then chop and combine it with the other ingredients. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed to ensure the broccoli is cooked to your liking.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Broccoli Au Gratin gluten-free, substitute regular cracker crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, ensure that the cream of mushroom soup you use is labeled gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this dish without any gluten concerns.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. When you're ready to serve, just bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight out of the fridge.
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).