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

Scale

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)

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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