Discover a creamy, cheesy Broccolini Au Gratin recipe that’s simple to make and perfect as a tasty side dish for any meal. This dish combines tender broccolini with a luscious béchamel sauce, savory cheese, and a crispy golden topping that’s sure to win over even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or just craving something comforting, this Broccolini Au Gratin offers a delightful twist on a classic favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Elegance: Easily elevates broccolini with rich, melty cheese and a crunchy topping for a gourmet touch without stress.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: Combines creamy sauce and sharp cheese with the slight bitterness of broccolini for a harmonious taste.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pairs beautifully with meats, seafood, and vegetarian mains, making it ideal for any occasion.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Broccolini adds a punch of vitamins and fiber, turning indulgence into nourishment.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepped in advance and baked just before serving, saving time on busy days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Broccolini Au Gratin recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a comfort food masterpiece. Each component brings essential texture, flavor, or color, making sure every bite is satisfying and delicious.
- Fresh Broccolini: Choose firm, vibrant stalks for a tender crunch and a beautiful green color.
- Butter: Used to create a smooth roux that forms the base for the creamy sauce.
- All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the béchamel and gives the sauce a velvety consistency.
- Milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess, but you can substitute with alternatives if desired.
- Grated Cheese: Sharp cheddar or Gruyère adds depth and a rich, melty texture to the dish.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a subtle aromatic kick to the sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkled on top for a crispy, flavorful crust once baked.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors of the broccolini and cheese.
- Breadcrumbs: Optional, for added crunch on top when baked.
Variations for Broccolini Au Gratin
This Broccolini Au Gratin recipe is highly flexible, perfect for tailoring to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with these simple variations to make it your own.
- Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella or fontina for a milder, creamier texture instead of cheddar or Gruyère.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the béchamel sauce for an herby twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for subtle heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Vegan Version: Substitute dairy with plant-based milk, vegan butter, and cheese alternatives to enjoy a cruelty-free dish.
How to Make Broccolini Au Gratin
Step 1: Prepare the Broccolini
Start by trimming the ends of your broccolini and blanching them in boiling salted water for 2 to 3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately plunge into ice-cold water to stop the cooking process and keep the color vibrant.
Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in flour to form a smooth paste. Slowly add milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper, then stir in your grated cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Place the blanched broccolini evenly in a baking dish. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the top, making sure the broccolini is well covered. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs (if using) evenly over the surface for a golden crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the Broccolini Au Gratin for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and the top is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving for the best texture and flavor experience.
Pro Tips for Making Broccolini Au Gratin
- Fresh Broccolini Matters: Using fresh broccolini ensures a tender bite and vibrant green color after cooking.
- Don’t Skip the Ice Bath: Plunging broccolini into cold water immediately after boiling locks in color and stops overcooking.
- Constant Stirring: When making béchamel, stirring constantly prevents lumps and creates a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Grate Your Own Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts much better and provides a richer flavor than pre-shredded options.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes post-bake to firm up the sauce slightly for easier serving.
How to Serve Broccolini Au Gratin
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top add a bright, fresh contrast to the creamy, cheesy richness of the Broccolini Au Gratin.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a side alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon, pairing wonderfully with both light and hearty mains.
Creative Ways to Present
For a striking presentation, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with a sprinkle of extra cheese and herbs, perfect for dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Broccolini Au Gratin in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, maintaining its creamy texture and flavor.
Freezing
This dish freezes well; cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to restore the crispy top, or microwave on medium power for quicker results, though the crust may soften.
FAQs
Can I use regular broccoli instead of broccolini?
Absolutely! Regular broccoli works well, though broccolini offers a sweeter, more tender bite that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Is Broccolini Au Gratin suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as long as you use cheese made without animal rennet and no meat-based broths.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting plant-based milk and vegan cheese alternatives, you can enjoy a dairy-free Broccolini Au Gratin without sacrificing creaminess.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Cheddar and Gruyère are classic choices for their sharpness and meltability, but you can experiment with others like mozzarella, fontina, or even a blend.
How do I know when the Broccolini Au Gratin is done baking?
Look for a bubbly sauce with a golden-brown, crispy top. The broccolini should be tender when pierced with a fork but still maintain some firmness.
Final Thoughts
This Broccolini Au Gratin recipe is a deliciously simple way to turn a humble vegetable into a creamy, cheesy delight that will brighten any meal. Whether you keep it classic or add your own twists, it’s a side dish worth making again and again. Grab your ingredients and dive into this comforting, flavor-packed recipe today!