Easy Broccolini Au Gratin Recipe to Try Tonight

Discover a creamy, cheesy Broccolini Au Gratin recipe that’s simple, delicious, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This dish combines tender broccolini with a luscious cheese sauce, baked to golden perfection, offering a comforting yet fresh twist on the classic au gratin. Whether you’re looking to elevate your vegetable side or enjoy a cozy main, this Broccolini Au Gratin is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra Creamy Texture: A rich cheese sauce that hugs every broccolini stem for maximum indulgence.
• Quick and Easy Prep: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make it perfect for busy nights.
• Bright, Fresh Flavor: The naturally crisp broccolini balances the cheesy decadence beautifully.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pairs wonderfully with proteins or works as a standalone vegetarian treat.
• Impressive Presentation: A golden, bubbly crust that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients, this Broccolini Au Gratin recipe is all about balancing creamy, cheesy richness with vibrant vegetable crunch. Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting dish shine.

• Broccolini: The star green vegetable delivering subtle sweetness and tender stems.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create the smooth cheese sauce base.
• All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the sauce into the perfect creamy consistency.
• Milk: Provides the silky liquid foundation for the cheese sauce.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully with a bold flavor that complements broccolini.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory punch and helps create a golden gratin crust.
• Garlic: For a subtle, aromatic boost.
• Salt and pepper: To season and enhance all the flavors.
• Breadcrumbs (optional): Gives a crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy sauce.

Variations for Broccolini Au Gratin

This Broccolini Au Gratin recipe is incredibly adaptable. Customize the dish to suit your pantry, dietary preferences, or craving for a flavor twist without losing its comforting charm.

• Cheese swaps: Use Gruyère, mozzarella, or fontina instead of cheddar for different melty textures and flavor notes.
• Vegan option: Replace butter and cheese with plant-based alternatives and use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free gratin.
• Add herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives can brighten the dish and add complexity.
• Protein boost: Toss in cooked bacon bits or cooked chicken pieces to make it a heartier meal.
• Spice level: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.

How to Make Broccolini Au Gratin

Step 1: Prepare the Broccolini

Start by trimming the tough ends of the broccolini and blanching them in boiling salted water for about 2-3 minutes, until bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk in small increments while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened, then stir in sharp cheddar, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese melts into a silky sauce.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Place the blanched broccolini into a buttered baking dish. Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the broccolini, ensuring everything is well coated.

Step 4: Add Breadcrumb Topping and Bake

If using, sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of Parmesan on top for added crunch. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the top is a golden brown.

Pro Tips for Making Broccolini Au Gratin

• Blanch wisely: Don’t overcook broccolini before baking to maintain that perfect crisp-tender bite.
• Use sharp cheeses: Strong-flavored cheeses provide richness without needing excessive amounts.
• Whisk constantly: When making the sauce, this prevents lumps and creates a smooth texture.
• Prepare ahead: You can assemble the dish a day before and bake it fresh when ready.
• For extra crunch: Toast the breadcrumbs before topping for added depth.

How to Serve Broccolini Au Gratin

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of color and freshness on top of your Broccolini Au Gratin, perfect to brighten every bite.

Side Dishes

This creamy gratin pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, baked salmon, or even a hearty grain bowl, making it an easy complement to your dinner plans.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in ramekins for a charming dinner party presentation or layer the gratin over a bed of cooked quinoa or rice for a satisfying single-dish meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Broccolini Au Gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring it stays fresh and easy to reheat.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if made without the breadcrumb topping. Store the cooled Broccolini Au Gratin in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in an oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain the crunchy topping and avoid sogginess, or use a microwave for a quicker option but with a softer finish.

FAQs

Can I use regular broccoli instead of broccolini?

Absolutely! Regular broccoli works well too; just be sure to adjust blanching time since broccoli florets are thicker and may need a bit longer to soften.

What cheese types work best in Broccolini Au Gratin?

Sharp cheddars, Gruyère, and Parmesan are ideal because they melt well and provide a rich, flavorful base for the sauce.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as written, but can be adapted to vegan by using plant-based substitutes for butter, cheese, and milk.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

You can make the cheese sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat gently and whisk before combining it with the broccolini and baking.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?

If too thick, add a bit more milk while reheating to loosen it up; if too thin, cook the sauce a bit longer to thicken before adding cheese.

Final Thoughts

Give this Broccolini Au Gratin recipe a try tonight and experience the joy of creamy, cheesy comfort that is surprisingly fresh and easy to prepare. It’s a delicious way to bring some greens to the table without sacrificing flavor or indulgence. Once you make it, this dish will quickly become a beloved staple worth sharing at any meal.

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