Broccoli and blue cheese gratin
This broccoli and blue cheese gratin combines earthy broccoli with a creamy blue cheese sauce, creating a rich, comforting side dish. It’s easy to prepare and ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 5 min
Ingredients:
1.50 lb broccoli2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose white wheat flour
1.50 cups milk (1% fat)
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp black pepper
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
Broccoli and blue cheese gratin is a delicious and comforting side dish that combines the earthy flavors of broccoli with the rich, creamy taste of blue cheese. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It adds a gourmet touch to your menu and pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or poultry.
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
- Add the broccoli florets to the boiling water and blanch for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain the broccoli and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain well and set aside.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth paste. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, making sure not to let it brown.
- Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the ground nutmeg and black pepper, and adjust the seasoning to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli with the prepared sauce, making sure the broccoli is well-coated.
- Transfer the broccoli mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the broccoli mixture.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
- Once baked, remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this delicious broccoli and blue cheese gratin as a side dish or a main course!
This Broccoli and blue cheese gratin is a rich, creamy, and savory dish that's perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a deluxe side. With its delicious blend of broccoli, blue cheese, and parmesan, it brings both comforting and sophisticated flavors to the table. Enjoy the depth of flavors and the creamy texture, and feel free to experiment with variations to suit your palate.
Broccoli and blue cheese gratin FAQ:
For this recipe, a 9x13-inch baking dish is recommended. This size allows for even baking and sufficient space for the broccoli and sauce.
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. However, be sure to thaw and drain it well before use to avoid excess moisture in the gratin.
The gratin is done when the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges, typically after 20-25 minutes in the oven.
Store leftover gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
For a milder flavor, you can substitute with feta cheese or goat cheese. Alternatively, use a sharp cheddar for a different taste, keeping in mind it will alter the overall flavor profile.
Tips:
- Blanch the broccoli: Before baking, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. This will help retain its bright green color and ensure it's cooked just right.
- Gradually add milk: When making the bechamel sauce, add the milk gradually to prevent lumps from forming. Stir continuously for a smooth texture.
- Cheese substitution: If you can't find blue cheese, you can substitute it with gorgonzola or Roquefort for a similar flavor profile.
- Crispy topping: For extra crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the top before baking.
- Seasoning: Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before baking. A pinch of salt or extra pepper can make a big difference.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 220kcal
Protein 10g
Carbohydrates 22g
Fiber 4.69g
Sugar 7g
Fat 10g
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