Keto Broccoli and Cauliflower Au Gratin With Sausage Recipe

Envision a dish that combines the creamy richness of a traditional au gratin with the wholesome goodness of low-carb vegetables and the savory depth of sausage. The Keto Broccoli and Cauliflower Au Gratin with Sausage is just that—a comforting, cheesy casserole that satisfies your cravings without derailing your dietary goals.

Traditional au gratin recipes often rely on potatoes as their base, but in this keto-friendly version, we’ve swapped them for nutrient-dense broccoli and cauliflower florets. These vegetables not only provide essential vitamins and fiber but also serve as the perfect canvas for the indulgent cheese sauce that defines this dish.

The addition of sausage introduces a savory element that enhances the overall flavor profile, making this gratin hearty enough to stand as a main course or serve as a satisfying side dish. Whether you’re following a ketogenic lifestyle, managing your carbohydrate intake, or simply seeking a delicious and nutritious meal, this recipe offers a delightful solution.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the ingredients in detail, provide step-by-step instructions, and offer tips for customizing this dish to suit your preferences. From selecting the right sausage to achieving the perfect cheese sauce consistency, we’ve got you covered.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating a delicious Keto Broccoli and Cauliflower Au Gratin with Sausage is a fairly straightforward process, but the key to getting that creamy, cheesy texture and the perfect balance of flavors lies in careful timing and technique. Follow these steps to achieve a gratin that’s rich, comforting, and totally keto-friendly.

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Broccoli and Cauliflower Preparation:

• Begin by washing and trimming your broccoli and cauliflower. Cut both vegetables into small, bite-sized florets. The florets should be roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.

• Steam or blanch the broccoli and cauliflower. You can steam them in a steamer basket over boiling water for 4-5 minutes or blanch them in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes. The goal here is to slightly soften the vegetables while keeping them firm enough to hold their shape during baking. If you prefer a bit more caramelization, you can also roast them in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, tossing them halfway through for even browning.

• After steaming or blanching, drain the vegetables well and place them on a paper towel or kitchen cloth to absorb any excess moisture. This is important as extra water can make the cheese sauce thin out during baking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage to the skillet. Use your spatula to break up the sausage into small pieces as it cooks.

• Depending on the type of sausage you’re using, the cooking time will vary. For a typical pork sausage, cook for 6-8 minutes until it’s no longer pink and has developed a bit of caramelization. If using leaner sausage, be careful not to overcook it, as it may dry out.

• Once cooked, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside on a plate. Leave the flavorful drippings in the skillet—they’ll help to infuse the sauce with extra flavor later. If there’s excess fat, you can drain some off, but retain enough to sauté the garlic.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

Building the Sauce:

• In the same skillet used for the sausage, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.

• Next, add the heavy whipping cream to the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. The cream should not be boiling, just simmering, as boiling it can cause it to separate.

• Add the cream cheese cubes into the mixture, stirring constantly to ensure the cream cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.

• Once the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth, add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but not overly stiff. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a splash more cream or some chicken broth.

• Season the cheese sauce with mustard powder or Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste it and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you like a little more kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.

Step 4: Combine the Vegetables, Sausage, and Sauce

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, cauliflower, and cooked sausage. Gently toss the ingredients together to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

• Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetables and sausage mixture, then stir carefully to coat all the ingredients in the creamy sauce. Make sure the sauce is evenly distributed across the broccoli, cauliflower, and sausage so that every bite will be rich and flavorful.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish and Bake

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similarly sized casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray. This will ensure your gratin doesn’t stick during baking.

• Transfer the vegetable and sausage mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

• Optional: For a golden, crispy topping, you can sprinkle some additional shredded Parmesan cheese or crushed pork rinds on top before baking. This will give the gratin a nice, crunchy texture while keeping it keto-friendly.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

• Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. The vegetables should be tender and the sauce thickened.

• If you prefer a more crispy top, you can broil the gratin for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

• Once baked, remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief cooling time allows the sauce to set a little, making it easier to serve.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness. This also adds a subtle herbaceous flavor that balances the richness of the gratin.

• Serve this Keto Broccoli and Cauliflower Au Gratin with Sausage as a main dish for a hearty meal, or as a side to complement your favorite protein. It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a simple leafy green salad for a complete keto dinner.

Additional Tips for Perfection

• Avoiding a Watery Gratin: Ensure that your broccoli and cauliflower are thoroughly drained after steaming or blanching to prevent excess moisture from thinning the sauce. If the vegetables release too much water, the gratin can become soupy.

• Customize the Sausage: If you want a spicier or more flavorful dish, use sausage with added spices like garlic, fennel, or red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with sausage varieties like chorizo or turkey sausage, depending on your preference.

• Make Ahead: This gratin is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the entire dish ahead of time, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake as instructed, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time since it will be starting from cold.

• Freezing: To make this dish ahead of time for a future keto meal, freeze it before baking. Wrap the assembled gratin tightly in foil and plastic wrap, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual.

Conclusion

This Keto Broccoli and Cauliflower Au Gratin with Sausage recipe is the ultimate comfort food for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. It combines the flavors of classic au gratin with the goodness of broccoli and cauliflower and the savory depth of sausage, all wrapped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a dish that’s hearty enough to serve as a main course or a delectable side that pairs perfectly with any protein.

The versatility of this gratin makes it a great option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, while still being easy to prepare and adaptable to your tastes. Whether you’re a keto veteran or a beginner looking to explore new recipes, this dish is sure to become a regular on your menu. Enjoy every bite of this rich, creamy, and satisfying meal!