Broccoli Vegetable Gratin // Delicious side dish ❤️

This creamy broccoli bake is the kind of side dish that quietly steals the show. It is rich, comforting, and full of flavor, yet surprisingly easy to put together. Everything comes together quickly with simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners. No complicated steps, no precooking the vegetables, just fresh flavors baked into a golden, cheesy casserole. If you are looking for a dependable side dish that goes well with almost anything, this is one you will want to save and make again.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 garlic clove, finely minced

• 2 cups milk

• ¼ teaspoon crushed rosemary (or thyme or Italian seasoning)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated

• 6 cups fresh broccoli florets

• ¾ cup yellow bell pepper, sliced

• ¾ cup red bell pepper, sliced

• ½ medium onion, chopped

For the topping:

• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs

• ½ cup butter, melted

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and stir constantly until it turns a light golden color. This step is important to remove the raw flour taste and build flavor.

Add the minced garlic and stir for about 20 seconds until fragrant. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add the rosemary, black pepper, and salt. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens and begins to gently bubble.

Remove the pan from the heat. Add the grated cheese a little at a time, stirring gently until smooth and fully melted. Set the cheese sauce aside.

Place the fresh broccoli, yellow bell pepper, red bell pepper, and onion evenly into the prepared baking dish. Pour the warm cheese sauce over the vegetables and spread it out evenly.

In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and chopped parsley until well combined. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the top of the casserole.

Bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the vegetables are tender. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes or Tips

• No need to precook the vegetables; they soften perfectly in the oven.

• You can swap cheddar for mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a cheese blend you enjoy.

• This dish pairs beautifully with pork chops, chicken, beef, or even as part of a holiday spread.

• For extra crunch, broil the casserole for the last 1–2 minutes, watching closely.

If you make this creamy broccoli bake, I would love to hear what you served it with. Leave a comment, share your twist, and enjoy cooking something comforting and delicious.