Baked Broccoli with White Sauce (Béchamel) is the perfect way to elevate a simple vegetable side dish. In this recipe, you’ll learn the secrets to preparing a delicious dish that combines the tender-crisp texture of broccoli with a velvety, irresistible white sauce. Plus, the versatility of this recipe allows you to adapt it with other vegetables of your choice, such as cauliflower or a medley of your favorites.
Ingredients:
- 2 small heads of broccoli (about 10-12 oz total)
- 3 oz broccoli stalks, peeled and chopped
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tbsp minced garlic
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese to taste
White Sauce (Béchamel):
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (approx. 500ml) whole milk
- Salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg to taste
How to Make Baked Broccoli with White Sauce:
- Start by washing the broccoli thoroughly under cold running water. Ensure all dirt and debris are removed.
- Steam the broccoli florets and stalks until they reach your desired tenderness (al dente is recommended).
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the steamed broccoli and toss gently.
- For the white sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk to the roux, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Season the Béchamel with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Fold half of the white sauce into the sautéed broccoli in the skillet.
- Transfer the broccoli mixture to a baking dish, pour the remaining white sauce over the top, and sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Tip:
This dish is best enjoyed fresh; it is not recommended for freezing due to the dairy-based sauce.
Enjoy this delicious Baked Broccoli with White Sauce, a healthy and comforting side dish that is sure to impress family and friends. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables for equally amazing results.