Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

Broccoli au Gratin: A Comforting and Nutritious Dish

If broccoli isn’t normally in your comfort-food repertoire, this Broccoli au Gratin might just change your mind. This dish combines antioxidant-filled broccoli with a rich, creamy cheese sauce that has sharp, savory, and umami notes. The addition of panko, garlic-herb seasoning, and more cheese creates a crisp, crunchy crust that adds texture and another layer of flavor to this casserole.

To ensure even cooking, it is recommended to cut larger broccoli florets into bite-size pieces. Prepackaged broccoli florets can be a great time-saver, but the pieces can vary in size, leading to uneven cooking. Draining the broccoli for a few minutes before mixing it with the cheese sauce helps prevent a soupy au gratin.

Instead of baking, broiling the dish speeds up the cooking time and prevents excess moisture from seeping into the dish. If using frozen broccoli florets, make sure to thaw and drain them before using, skipping the blanching step.

Nutritionally, broccoli is a powerhouse vegetable connected with reduced inflammation and a lower risk of diseases like heart disease and cancer. It is rich in immune-boosting vitamin C and bone-building vitamin K. The cheese sauce in this dish provides muscle-building protein, bone-building calcium and vitamin D, and vitamin B12 for a healthy nervous system. Cheese also brings gut-healthy probiotics to the table. The spices, onions, and garlic in the cheese sauce add small amounts of antioxidants.

Panko breadcrumbs not only add a nice crunch to the dish but also provide complex carbohydrates and B vitamins. Opting for whole-wheat panko can add fiber and antioxidants to the dish, making it a more nutritious choice.

In conclusion, this Broccoli au Gratin is not only a comforting and delicious dish but also a nutritious one. By following the expert tips from the EatingWell Test Kitchen and understanding the nutritional benefits of the ingredients, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that is good for you too. So, next time you’re looking for a cozy and nutritious dish, give this Broccoli au Gratin a try.