Fennel Au Gratin
Fennel Au Gratin features tender fennel bulbs baked in a savory broth, topped with Parmesan and buttery crumbs. A flavorful, elegant side perfect for vegetable lovers and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Butter a 9 x 12-inch baking dish.
- Blanch the fennel for 12 to 15 minutes and drain.
- Arrange the fennel halves cut side up in the baking dish.
- Season to taste with salt and freshly ground pepper.
- Pour the chicken broth over the fennel.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Dot with butter.
- Bake in the upper third of the oven for half an hour or until the top is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of cream to the chicken broth before pouring it over the fennel. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. You can also use Gruyère cheese instead of Parmesan for a different taste profile. Blanching fennel enhances its sweetness, but be careful not to overcook it, as it will continue to soften in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Fennel Au Gratin is a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats like lemon chicken Hawaiian style or grilled fish. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or alongside dishes like Vegetarian Swedish Meatballs for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving can add a burst of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Fennel Au Gratin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. For a crispier top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fennel Au Gratin contains roughly 216 calories, with 2g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1373mg per serving (60% 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 Fennel Au Gratin ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What if I don't like fennel?
If you're not a fan of fennel, you can substitute with thinly sliced leeks or parsnips, which will provide a similar texture. However, keep in mind that the flavor will differ from the original recipe, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
Can I freeze Fennel Au Gratin?
It is not recommended to freeze Fennel Au Gratin, as the texture of the fennel may become mushy upon thawing. However, if necessary, you can freeze it before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
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).