Broccoli Cheddar Gratin – Broccoli and cheddar cheese are a classic match-up that we all seem to love, in any form. As a little girl, broccoli with a cheddar cheese sauce was the only way I would consider eating it. I soon grew to love broccoli in any form and it remains one of my favorite vegetables. I’m sure you’re familiar with the classic broccoli casserole, this recipe takes it to another level with a homemade cheese sauce and a panko breadcrumb topping.
The filling can be made in advance, then covered and chilled then add the crumb topping just before baking. I topped this with panko breadcrumbs which are a favorite of mine. If you prefer, you can use crushed cheddar crackers, Ritz crackers, fresh breadcrumbs or even crushed french fried onions. I’ve made this so often, I’ve used each of those at one time or another. Cooking is often about improvising with the ingredients you have on hand, right?
One tip I’d like to give to you is you’ll get the best results if you use fresh broccoli florets and slightly under-cook them. They will finish cooking in the oven and maintain a more pleasing texture. If the broccoli cheddar combination is a favorite of yours too, you may also like my Broccoli Cheese Cornbread, Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole or Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
Broccoli Cheddar Gratin
Ingredients
- 8 cups steamed broccoli florets [ Around 2 lb]
- 8 Tbsp butter divided
- 1 small sweet onion diced
- 1/3 cup all purpose flour
- 1 tsp dry mustard
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- black pepper to taste
- 3 cups whole milk
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese divided
- 2/3 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp garlic salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 7 x 11 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
- Steam the broccoli, slightly under cooking. Cool.
- To prepare the sauce, In a medium saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of butter. Saute the minced onion in the butter for 2 minutes just until translucent.
- Sprinkle the flour over the butter. Add the dry mustard , garlic salt and black pepper. Stir until it the flour is absorbed by the butter. Cook stirring constantly for 1 minute.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly over medium-high heat. When the sauce begins to boil, lower the heat and simmer gently for 5 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and add 2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, reserving 1 cup for the top. Stir until the cheese has blended with the sauce.
- Add the steamed broccoli and using a large spatula, gently mix until combined. Pour into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Melt the remaining 2 Tbsp melted butter and mix with 2/3 panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 tsp garlic salt. Sprinkle on top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden and bubbly. Serve immediately.
Linda says
I’m a broccoli lover too. You can never have too many broccoli and cheese recipes, that’s for sure. Your recipes are great!
Melissa says
Thank you Linda!
Jackie says
Hi Melissa
To slightly undercook the broccoli, how long would I steam the broccoli.
Melissa says
Time can vary slightly but, I would check it around 8 minutes. It should be slightly crisp. This is subjective so, use your best judgement. When the casserole has finished baking the goal is tender not mushy broccoli.
Francine Smith says
Thanks I love this.
Victoria Arrico says
I made this for Christmas and it was a hit! It was soooo good! Followed the recipe to the letter and it was creamy and cheesy goodness! Will definitely make it again and again!
Melissa says
Wonderful, thanks so much for letting me know.
Kitty says
Do you have to steam the broccoli? Since it’s going to bake for 40 mins wouldn’t that cook the broccoli enough
Melissa says
Yes you do, but be certain not to overcook it and just until it’s crisp tender.
Meredith says
Have you ever prepared this in advance with success? I’m trying to decide if i can prepare this and then travel with it for a couple hours or if I can prepare it and refrigerate over night.
Meredith says
Oh nevermind – I missed the part in your comments about making in the filling in advance!
Melissa says
Enjoy!