If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty dish that combines the earthy flavors of potatoes and the vibrant taste of broccoli, look no further. This Broccoli and Potato Gratin is the perfect meal for cozy dinners and family gatherings. With layers of tender potatoes, perfectly blanched broccoli, and a creamy Béchamel sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this dish is sure to be a hit. Here’s how to create this delicious and satisfying dish.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 65-70 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 broccoli (about 350g)
- 800g potatoes
- 40g Parmesan cheese, grated
- 100g Mozzarella cheese
- Vegetable oil
- Salt
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 50g butter
- 50g flour
- 500ml milk
- Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon rosemary
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with vegetable oil and set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash the broccoli and cut it into florets. Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds.
- Blanch the Broccoli:
- In a pot of salted boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for about 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Béchamel Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce until it thickens, then season with salt and rosemary. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Gratin:
- Layer half of the potato slices in the greased baking dish. Sprinkle with salt and pour half of the Béchamel sauce over the potatoes.
- Arrange the blanched broccoli florets on top of the potatoes and sauce.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli layer.
- Add another layer with the remaining potato slices, salt, and the rest of the Béchamel sauce.
- Tear the Mozzarella cheese into small pieces and scatter them evenly over the top layer.
- Bake the Gratin:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
- Serve:
- Let the gratin cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and cheesy layers of this delightful Broccoli and Potato Gratin.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Main Course: Pair with a simple green salad and a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish for a balanced and nutritious dinner.
- For Brunch: This gratin makes a fantastic addition to any brunch spread, especially when served with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.
Cooking Tips
- Uniform Slices: Ensure that your potato slices are uniform in thickness to guarantee even cooking.
- Avoid Overcooking the Broccoli: Blanch the broccoli just until it’s tender-crisp. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy during baking.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyere or cheddar can add a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Benefits
- Broccoli: High in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s also a good source of folate and potassium.
- Potatoes: Rich in vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber. They are also a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle repair.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour for the Béchamel sauce.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower for a lower-carb version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting: This dish is the epitome of comfort food with its creamy sauce and cheesy topping.
- Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and dairy, it provides a well-rounded nutritional profile.
- Versatile: Serve it as a main course, side dish, or even for brunch, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.
- Family-Friendly: The mild flavors and cheesy goodness make it a hit with both kids and adults.
Conclusion
This Broccoli and Potato Gratin is a versatile and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, its rich layers of potatoes, broccoli, and creamy Béchamel sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, will delight your taste buds. The combination of flavors and textures makes this gratin a family favorite, providing not only comfort but also a range of nutritional benefits. Try this recipe for your next meal and enjoy the heartwarming satisfaction it brings.