Description
Cheddar Vegetable Gratin is the perfect side dish, combining the rich flavors of creamy cheese with mixed vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots, topped with crispy bacon. It’s a savory, comforting dish that’s ideal for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday feasts.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, or green beans)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a combination of cheddar and Swiss cheese)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- ¼ cup chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp flour (for thickening the sauce)
- ½ tsp mustard powder (optional, for a tangy kick)
- ¼ tsp paprika (for color and flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook the Vegetables: Steam or blanch the cauliflower and broccoli florets until they are just tender but still firm (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess water and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Once the sauce thickens, add the cheddar cheese (and Swiss cheese, if using) and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and mustard powder.
- Combine the Vegetables and Sauce: Place the cooked cauliflower and broccoli in the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce over the vegetables, stirring gently to combine. Top with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add the Bacon: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top of the casserole, followed by the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot as a side dish.
Notes
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Make it a Meal: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or even sausage to the casserole to make it a heartier dish.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese, coconut milk, and plant-based butter for a vegan version of this casserole.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole, Low-Carb Side Dish, Thanksgiving Side Dish, Bacon Casserole