Broccoli Au Gratin Casserole

Broccoli Au Gratin Casserole is by far my favored Thanksgiving or Christmas veggie side dish! I love broccoli in every form, whether raw or cooked. (except over-cooked mushy broccoli) but, this broccoli casserole truly takes this healthy vegetable over the top.

I first tried Broccoli Au Gratin Casserole years ago when my sweet mother-in-law made it for Thanksgiving. This delicious veggie side dish was also one of her favorites. I asked for the recipe and have made it regularly not only for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, but also whenever I get craving the best broccoli casserole ever!

When Thanksgiving or Christmas are coming up, I start preparing side dishes and desserts weeks in advance! This Broccoli Au Gratin Casserole can be made up, assembled, and frozen way ahead, giving it another bonus.

As I said in the Slow Cooker Stuffing recipe, side dishes are the best part of Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners!! We always have everyones favorite side dishes along with the star of the show, turkey! So, this will include Holiday Potatoes, Sweet Potato Casserole, 7 Layer Salad, Slow Cooker Stuffing, corn and possibly carrots, Homemade Honey Buns and of course always must include Broccoli Au Gratin Casserole.

This post may contain affiliate links, please read my privacy policy.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Broccoli Benefits and History

Broccoli is in the cabbage family and has its "roots" traced back to the 6th Century. It was cultivated from a wild cabbage in Italy more than 2000 years ago but did not become popular in America until the 1920s. This delicious vegetable has SO many health benefits. Honestly, according to Broccoli 101: Nutrition Facts & Benefits, we could all stand to eat more of this tasty flower!!

This broccoli casserole does not have eggs, mayonnaise, or canned soup. The broccoli flavor truly shines through and it is a lighter broccoli side dish than some. Broccoli casserole recipe is pure deliciousness!

Simple to prepare, Broccoli Au Gratin Casserole is a true made-from-scratch, holiday side dish! I always use easy to find ingredients. This recipe is a well-loved comfort food in our family and hopefully will become a favorite in your family as well!!

Ingredients for Broccoli Au Gratin Casserole

For the broccoli part

• Broccoli, I buy the 2 lb bag of florets, they are the easiest to prepare.
• Butter
• Garlic and Onion, finely chopped
• Flour
• Milk
• Salt, pepper, nutmeg and cayenne
• Cheddar cheese, using sharp cheddar gives the most flavor.

For the Topping

• Ritz cracker crumbs, or you can use bread crumbs.
• Melted butter
• Grated cheddar cheese
• Parsley flakes

How to Make Broccoli Au Gratin Casserole

For the broccoli part

1.Cut the broccoli in bite sized pieces and steam just until tender. Strain and set aside.

2.Place butter in a large saucepan with the onions and garlic. Saute until the onions and garlic are clear.

3.Add flour, cook, stirring continuously for about 3 minutes.

4.Whisk in the milk and bring to a boil, until thickened.

5.Add seasonings and cheese, stir to melt the cheese.

6.Remove from heat and add the broccoli. Gently combine the broccoli with the cheese sauce.

7.Place in a 9x13 inch casserole dish.

For the Topping

1.Combine all ingredients and sprinkle on top of broccoli.

2.Bake at 350°F for 20-30 minutes, until thoroughly heated.

To Freeze Broccoli Au Gratin Casserole

• To freeze ahead, place the topping in a seperate sealed plastic bag. Cover the broccoli casserole with plastic wrap and freeze both for up to 2 months.
• To thaw, refrigerate for 24 hours, then sprinkle the topping on and bake as directed.

For recommended items to help you make this recipe, see my Amazon Shop.

Other Tasty Side Dishes to Try

Slow Cooker Stuffing

Light and Fluffy Honey Buns

Sweet Potato Casserole