If you love the comforting, cheesy warmth of classic casseroles but crave a bit of fresh green goodness and a satisfying crunch, this Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe is your new best friend. It combines tender broccoli florets enveloped in a luscious, sharp cheddar and Parmesan sauce, all topped with golden, crispy onions that add texture and flavor with every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish effortlessly balances vibrant veggies and indulgent cheese for a side everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe? The ingredients list is simple but powerful. Each element plays a crucial role: fresh broccoli for vibrant color and a tender bite, cheeses for that rich creaminess, and crispy onions to elevate texture and flavor. Let’s break it down:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets: Choose bright green, firm pieces for the best texture.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create the roux for the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce perfectly without clumps.
- 1 cup whole milk: Provides creaminess and balances the heaviness of the cheese.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Adds decadence and silky texture to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Packs a subtle tang that brightens the cheese flavors.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Offers just a hint of savory depth.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the dish’s natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that ties the sauce together.
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for bold, melted cheesiness.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts umami and adds complexity.
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade): The crowning glory, delivering irresistible crunch and flavor.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 2-quart baking dish. Next, steam or blanch fresh broccoli florets for 3 to 4 minutes—just enough to make them tender but still vibrantly green. After cooking, drain the broccoli well and set it aside. This step ensures your veggies stay bright and don’t get mushy in the oven.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour. Cook this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until it bubbles, creating a smooth roux that thickens the sauce. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. As the sauce thickens after about 4 to 5 minutes, stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper for layers of flavor. Then remove from heat and fold in the shredded sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan until the sauce is velvety and melted.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Spread the steamed broccoli evenly into your baking dish. Pour the luscious cheese sauce over the broccoli and gently stir to coat every piece. Finally, sprinkle the crispy fried onions generously on top, adding that essential golden crunch. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the onions have turned beautifully golden. Serve immediately for that perfect gooey and crispy combination.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe
Garnishes
While the crispy onions already add fantastic texture, try topping the gratin with a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or parsley. These subtle pops of green brighten the dish with color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or grilled chicken but also complements vegetarian meals when served alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread. Think of it as your versatile and tasty partner for any hearty dinner where you want veggies to shine.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, try serving individual portions in small ramekins topped with a few extra crispy onions and a dash of smoked paprika for a modern twist. You can also layer the gratin in a clear glass baking dish for a charming visual effect that reveals the vibrant broccoli and creamy layers underneath.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The gratin keeps well for up to three days, making it a convenient and delicious option for next-day meals or packed lunches.
Freezing
This Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe freezes beautifully before baking. Simply prepare the dish, skip the crispy onion topping, cover tightly, and freeze for up to two months. Add crispy onions fresh just before baking to keep that special texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly—about 15 to 20 minutes. This helps maintain the creamy texture while restoring some crispness to the topping if you add extra onions just before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you use frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain it very well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the gratin watery. Blanch it briefly to maintain firmness before assembling.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
To create a vegan version, substitute the butter with plant-based margarine, use unsweetened plant milk and vegan cream alternatives, and replace the cheeses with vegan cheddar and Parmesan-style cheeses. Also, opt for crispy fried onions made without animal products.
Can I make the crispy onion topping from scratch?
Yes! To make your own crispy onions, thinly slice onions, toss them in a little flour, and fry until golden brown and crispy. Homemade onions add a lovely freshness and can be seasoned to your taste.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I add heat?
The Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe is mild and creamy by default. For a spicy kick, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or sprinkling chili flakes over the finished gratin works beautifully without overwhelming the other flavors.
What can I do with leftovers besides reheating?
Leftover gratin makes a fantastic filling for savory crepes or omelets. You can also toss it with cooked pasta for a quick, cheesy broccoli casserole that’s just as comforting and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting and special about a dish like this Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe. It’s a simple combination of fresh veggies, melty cheeses, and that crave-worthy crunch that makes every bite a delight. Whether it’s a weeknight side or the star of your holiday spread, this recipe is sure to become a treasured classic in your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it and feel that same joy it always brings me!
Print
Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Gratin with Crispy Onions is a deliciously creamy and cheesy vegetable side dish featuring tender broccoli florets smothered in a rich cheddar and Parmesan sauce, topped with crispy fried onions for a perfect crunchy finish. Ideal for holiday dinners or comforting everyday meals, this gratin combines simple ingredients into a flavorful bake that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Broccoli
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Broccoli: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish. Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until just tender but still bright green. Drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbly. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and mix in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth.
- Assemble Gratin: Spread the steamed broccoli evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli, gently stirring to coat it thoroughly.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the cheese-coated broccoli. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the onions are golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve hot as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- You can prepare the gratin ahead of time without adding the crispy onions and refrigerate; add the onions just before baking to maintain their crispness.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
