Cheesy Broccoli Au Gratin: The Ultimate Comfort Casserole
Broccoli au Gratin truly embodies comfort in a casserole dish. It's a warm, creamy, and cheesy side that transforms simple broccoli into something indulgent and satisfying. The combination of sharp Cheddar and nutty Gruyère cheese, along with a crunchy panko topping, adds layers of flavor and texture that make this dish irresistible. Whether served alongside a main course or enjoyed on its own, it's the kind of dish that brings comfort and joy to the table.
Servings: 8
Calories: 238kcal
Ingredients
- Broccoli: 2 12-ounce packages fresh broccoli florets (about 8 cups)
- Butter: 3 tablespoons unsalted divided
- Onion: ½ cup chopped
- Garlic: 1 tablespoon chopped
- Flour: ¼ cup all-purpose
- Milk: 2¾ cups reduced-fat at room temperature
- Mustards: 1 teaspoon dry mustard 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Seasonings: ¼ teaspoon plus ⅛ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon ground pepper, ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Cheeses: ¾ cup shredded sharp white Cheddar cheese divided; ¾ cup shredded Gruyère cheese, divided
- Panko Breadcrumbs: ¼ cup
- Garlic-and-Herb Seasoning: ¼ teaspoon salt-free
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to broil with rack in top third position. Prepare a 7-by-11-inch broiler-safe baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook Broccoli: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli and cook for 5-6 minutes until tender and bright green. Drain.
Make Cheese Sauce:
- Melt 1 tablespoon butter in the pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, cook until browned and softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter; once melted, add flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.
- Gradually whisk in milk; cook until slightly thickened (6-8 minutes).
- Add mustards, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using); stir until combined.
- Remove from heat; stir in half of the Cheddar and Gruyère until melted.
Assemble and Broil:
- Mix broccoli with cheese sauce and transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheeses, panko, and garlic-and-herb seasoning.
- Broil until the top is golden brown and cheese is melted, about 3-5 minutes.