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Double Kale Gratin Recipe

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4.1 from 4 reviews

A rich and comforting Double Kale Gratin featuring two types of kale baked in a creamy mixture of gruyere, cheddar, and parmesan cheeses, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. This casserole-style dish is perfect as a hearty side or a main course for kale lovers.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 1 large bunch of curly green kale, leaves torn from stem
  • 1 large bunch of Tuscan (lacinato) kale, leaves torn from stem
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

Cheese

  • 4 ounces gruyere cheese, freshly grated
  • 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 2 ounces parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Dairy & Condiments

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Seasoning & Toppings

  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly cracked pepper
  • ½ cup panko bread crumbs
  • 3 tablespoons seasoned fine breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Arrange kale and season: Tear both types of kale into bite-sized pieces and place them into the baking dish, allowing the leaves to overflow as they will shrink while cooking. Add the minced shallot, salt, and freshly cracked pepper, tossing all together thoroughly.
  3. Combine cheeses: In a separate bowl, mix all three cheeses. Add about three quarters of the cheese mixture to the kale and toss well to evenly coat the greens.
  4. Prepare cream mixture: In a large bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the minced garlic, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over the kale and cheese in the baking dish.
  5. Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the cream-coated kale. Then, top everything with the panko and seasoned breadcrumbs to create a crispy crust.
  6. Bake the gratin: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45 minutes until the top is golden brown and crisp and the edges are bubbly.
  7. Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving.

Notes

  • For best results, use freshly grated cheeses to ensure optimal melting and flavor.
  • This gratin can be made ahead of time and kept refrigerated; simply reheat it in the oven before serving to restore the crispy topping.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute panko and seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
  • To lighten the dish, you can reduce the heavy cream slightly or use half-and-half, but it will be less rich.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian