Broccoli Gratin With Herbed Cream Cheese Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
• STEP 2.Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and set aside.
• STEP 3.In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
• STEP 4.Gradually whisk in the milk and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
• STEP 5.Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the herbed cream cheese until melted and smooth.
• STEP 6.Place the blanched broccoli in the greased baking dish and pour the cream cheese sauce over it.
• STEP 7.In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the broccoli and sauce.
• STEP 8.Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbly.
• STEP 9.Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
• STEP 10.Serve the Broccoli Gratin with Herbed Cream Cheese as a side dish with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or as a vegetarian main dish with a side salad.

Cooking Tips

• Blanching the broccoli before baking helps to retain its vibrant green color and ensures it is cooked to the desired tenderness.
• You can use regular cream cheese if you don't have herbed cream cheese. Just add some dried herbs or spices of your choice to the sauce for added flavor.
• For a crispy breadcrumb topping, you can broil the gratin for a couple of minutes at the end of baking.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Storage and Serving

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the gratin in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or in the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
• Serve the Broccoli Gratin with Herbed Cream Cheese as a side dish with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or as a vegetarian main dish with a side salad.