Baked broccoli with bechamel sauce: easy, creamy, and ready in 20 minutes

Looking for a different and tasty way to enjoy broccoli? This broccoli with bechamel sauce, baked in the oven It's the perfect recipe: creamy, comforting, and with that irresistible golden touch of melted cheese. Ideal as a starter or side dish, it's prepared in just 20 minutes and will win over even those who claim not to be fans of broccoli.

Why prepare broccoli with bechamel?

Because it's one of those simple recipes that transforms an ingredient as healthy as broccoli into a dish full of flavor.
The homemade bechamel It provides a softness and a creamy texture that combines perfectly with the crunchiness of the gratin. It's also an ideal way for little ones to eat vegetables without any fuss.

Ingredients for broccoli with bechamel (2 servings)

• 700 g of broccoli

• Salt to taste

• 30 g of butter

• 30 g of wheat flour

• 350 ml of whole milk

• Ground black pepper

• A pinch of nutmeg

• 100 g of grated cheese for gratin

Advice: If you prefer a lighter version, replace the butter with olive oil and the whole milk with a plant-based drink.

How to make broccoli with bechamel sauce step by step

1. Prepare the broccoli

Cut the florets into similar-sized pieces, wash them well, and cook them in salted water for about 3 minutes. Drain and place them on paper towels to remove excess moisture.

2. Make the homemade bechamel

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir for one minute until lightly browned.
Pour in the milk little by little, stirring constantly with a whisk to avoid lumps.
Add salt, pepper and a pinch of nutmeg, and cook for about 5 minutes until you get a smooth, thick béchamel.

3. Assemble the plate

In an ovenproof dish, spread a thin layer of béchamel on the bottom. Place the broccoli on top and cover with the remaining sauce.
Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly.

4. Gratin

Place the dish in the oven preheated to 200 ºC with the grill function and bake for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

Can you make broccoli with bechamel sauce without an oven?

Yes, of course. If you don't have an oven, you can finish the recipe in a covered pan: cook the broccoli with the béchamel for a few minutes over low heat until it thickens, and add the cheese at the end so it melts in the residual heat. It won't be as toasty, but it will be just as creamy and delicious.

Can I use plant-based milk for bechamel?

Of course. The béchamel is perfect with unsweetened oat or soy milk.
Just keep in mind that the flavor will be a little sweeter, so compensate with an extra pinch of salt or a teaspoon of nutritional yeast if you prefer to keep the savory profile.

Do children like broccoli with bechamel?

Yes, definitely. The creamy texture and cheesy touch make this recipe a great way to introduce broccoli into a child's diet. You can even blend it all to create a smooth cream and serve it as a gratin purée.

How to preserve broccoli with leftover bechamel sauce?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat it, just a few minutes in the microwave or oven at a low temperature. If you notice it's dried out a bit, add a tablespoon of milk before heating to restore its creaminess.

A classic that is always appealing

He baked broccoli with bechamel sauce It's a simple, inexpensive, and flavorful recipe. Perfect for a weekday or to accompany your meat or fish dishes.
With very few ingredients, you get a result worthy of a restaurant... but homemade.

Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Difficulty: easy
Approximate calories: 510 kcal per serving