Broccoli and Cauliflower Gratin
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp.unsalted butter
plus more for pan
- 1 mediumhead cauliflower
cored and sliced 1/4-inch thick, about 2 pounds
- 1 largehead broccoli
trimmed and sliced 1/4-inch thick, about 1 1/2 pounds
- 6 tbsp.all-purpose flour
- 3 c.whole milk
- ¼ tsp.freshly grated nutmeg
- 8 oz.gruyère
grated, about 2 cups
- kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F. Butter a shallow 3-quart baking dish. Arrange cauliflower and broccoli in the prepared dish.
- 2
Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and cook, stirring, 2 minutes (do not let it darken). Slowly whisk in milk. Simmer, whisking occasionally, until slightly thickened, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in nutmeg and 1 1/4 cups cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Pour over vegetables. Sprinkle with remaining 3/4 cup cheese.
- 3
Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil; bake until vegetables are tender and the top is golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
Broccoli and Cauliflower Gratin
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 9 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Looking for the ultimate Thanksgiving side dish that even the pickiest eaters will love? This Broccoli and Cauliflower Gratin is a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that brings everyone to the table, making vegetables the star of your holiday spread.
Why This Gratin Works
This classic gratin takes humble broccoli and cauliflower and transforms them into an irresistible dish. The rich, velvety sauce, infused with a hint of freshly grated nutmeg, perfectly coats the tender vegetables, while a generous layer of melted Gruyère cheese adds a sophisticated, nutty flavor that elevates every bite. It’s comfort food at its finest, designed to be a memorable addition to your holiday feast.
What to Expect
Prepare for a truly comforting and decadent experience. You'll find beautifully tender-crisp florets of broccoli and cauliflower bathed in a lusciously smooth, cheesy béchamel sauce. The top layer bakes to a glorious golden brown, offering a delightful texture contrast to the creamy interior. This gratin strikes a perfect balance between hearty and refined, ensuring a universally appealing side that's surprisingly easy to achieve.
Customization & Variations
While Gruyère offers a distinct flavor, you can swap it for sharp cheddar or a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella for a different cheesy profile. For a lighter touch, use 2% milk, though whole milk offers the richest texture. Feel free to incorporate other sturdy vegetables like thinly sliced carrots or Brussels sprouts for added color and flavor. You can even sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch before baking.
Serving & Context
This gratin is the quintessential Thanksgiving side, pairing beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or any holiday centerpiece. Serve it warm directly from the baking dish as a show-stopping addition to your holiday buffet.