Celery Au Gratin
Creamy celery au gratin features tender celery baked with a cheesy mushroom sauce and crunchy bread crumbs, making it a comforting side perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer celery in boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
- Saute almonds in melted margarine or butter.
- Mix the almonds with cream of mushroom soup in a saucepan and heat until bubbles form.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of grated sharp Cheddar cheese.
- Add the cooked celery and almonds to the sauce and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with bread crumbs and remaining cheese.
- Add pimentos to taste.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, substitute the almonds with sunflower seeds. You can also use cream of celery soup instead of cream of mushroom for a different flavor profile. If you want to add more vegetables, consider mixing in some steamed broccoli or cauliflower. Ensure the cheese is freshly grated for better melting and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Celery Au Gratin makes a delightful side dish for roasted meats or vegetarian entrees. It pairs beautifully with Honey Apple Crisp for dessert, creating a comforting meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. This dish is a fantastic choice for holiday gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Celery Au Gratin contains roughly 543 calories, with 14g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value) and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 481mg per serving (21% 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 prepare Celery Au Gratin ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven. This helps ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs?
You can use crushed crackers, panko, or even ground oats as a substitute for bread crumbs. For a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed cornflakes to maintain the crisp topping.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute margarine for vegan butter, use plant-based milk, and choose a vegan cheese alternative. You can also make your own cream of mushroom soup using blended mushrooms and vegetable broth for a completely vegan-friendly version.
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).