Spaghetti Broccoli Au Gratin
A comforting baked pasta dish featuring tender spaghetti layered with broccoli and melted cheese, all infused with savory flavors. Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this gratin combines creamy milk and seasoned vegetables for a hearty, satisfying meal with a golden cheesy crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti until al dente and drain.
- Cook chopped onion in melted margarine until limp.
- Add thawed broccoli, salt, pepper, and savory to the onions.
- Cook for 5 minutes over low heat.
- Put the cooked spaghetti into a greased 3-quart casserole dish.
- Cover the spaghetti with a layer of cheese slices.
- Pour in milk over the cheese and spaghetti.
- Add a layer of cooked broccoli, then cover with another layer of cheese slices.
- Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding cream cheese or sour cream to the mixture. You can substitute fresh broccoli for frozen if you prefer, just blanch it before adding. If you want a bit of a kick, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes. For a twist, think about incorporating ingredients from other recipes like a hint of dill from Macaroni Cheese Salad With Dill Weed.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. If you're looking for a protein addition, serve it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp. A light white wine can complement the flavors well, making it a delightful dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Broccoli Au Gratin contains roughly 522 calories, with 12g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 920mg per serving (40% 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 definitely use fresh broccoli! Just blanch it in boiling water for a couple of minutes until bright green and tender before adding it to the dish. This will enhance the flavor and texture.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for its melting qualities and flavor, but you can experiment with mozzarella for a milder taste or even a blend of cheeses for added depth. Gruyère would also be a delicious option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the cover and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).