Cheesy Vegetable Au Gratin is a versatile and comforting dish that combines a variety of vegetables with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly top. This dish is perfect as a side or even as a main course, and it’s sure to be a hit at any dinner table.
The origins of Au Gratin can be traced back to French cuisine, where “au gratin” refers to a dish that is topped with cheese or breadcrumbs and browned. This technique creates a deliciously crispy and golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
Cheesy Vegetable Au Gratin
Ingredients
For the Vegetables:
- 1½ pounds mixed vegetables e.g., carrots, potatoes, cauliflower, green beans, peas, cooked to the crisp-tender stage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups milk skim, 1%, 2%, or whole milk
- 4 ounces cheddar cheese grated
- ½ teaspoon salt optional
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg optional
For the Topping:
- ⅛ cup bread crumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh herbs e.g., parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the vegetables until they are crisp-tender. You can roast, steam, or boil them. If roasting, toss the vegetables with olive oil and a pinch of salt, and roast in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
- Once cooked, set the vegetables aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk until smooth.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Increase the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Add the grated cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Gratin
- In a 9×9 inch (or similar size) baking dish, combine the cooked vegetables and the cheese sauce. Mix well to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Sprinkle the bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake the Gratin
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the dish is bubbling.
- If desired, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley before serving.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the Cheesy Vegetable Au Gratin hot, either as a side dish or a main course.
Tips and Information
Tips and Information
- Vegetable Preparation: Cut the vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. For example, cut carrots into smaller pieces as they take longer to cook than green beans.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to use other types of cheese that melt well, such as Gruyère, mozzarella, or a cheese blend.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, bring it to room temperature and bake as directed.
Preparing Cheesy Vegetable Au Gratin at home allows you to enjoy this classic dish with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re familiar with French cuisine or exploring it for the first time, Cheesy Vegetable Au Gratin is a dish that will surely delight your taste buds.