Make a rich, cheesy, and low-carb version of classic broccoli au gratin using heavy cream and sharp cheeses.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:25 min
Total Time:40 min
Yield:6 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
2 lbs fresh or frozen broccoli florets
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup chicken broth or water
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional, for extra thickness)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Drain well and set aside. If using frozen, thaw and drain thoroughly.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the cream cheese and stir until it is fully melted and smooth.
Whisk in the heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly until the sauce begins to simmer gently.
If you want a thicker sauce, slowly whisk in the xanthan gum until incorporated. Cook for one minute.
Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in half of the cheddar cheese and half of the Gruyère cheese until melted into the sauce.
Place the cooked broccoli florets into the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the broccoli.
In a small bowl, combine the remaining cheddar, Gruyère, and all of the Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, substitute half the heavy cream with sour cream.
You can substitute almond flour for xanthan gum if you prefer, using 1 tablespoon mixed with a little cold water before adding to the sauce.
Use high-quality, sharp cheeses for the best flavor payoff.