Artichokes Au Gratin Recipe

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that transforms humble artichokes into a decadent masterpiece—perfect for impressing your dinner guests or simply treating yourself to a night of indulgence.

I enjoy creating recipes that showcase the seasonal produce at its best, and Artichokes Au Gratin is a favorite of mine for its rich flavors and creamy texture. This dish combines artichokes with lemon, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese—an indulgent combination if there ever was one.

And yet, I would argue that it is a nutrient-dense dish. The artichokes themselves are full of fiber and antioxidants, and they provide a wealth of nutrients that are good for your heart.

Artichokes Au Gratin Recipe Ingredients

• Artichokes: Rich in fiber and antioxidants, artichokes promote digestive health.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fat known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Garlic: Offers immune-boosting benefits linked to allicin compound.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds umami flavor and provides protein and calcium.
• Breadcrumbs: Adds texture and a toasty topping, enhancing flavor.

Artichokes Au Gratin Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 large artichokes
• 1 lemon, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

How to Make this Artichokes Au Gratin Recipe

1. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to warm up.

2. To prepare the artichokes, trim the stem and cut off the top third of each artichoke. Remove the small, tough outer leaves.

3. To stop the cut portions of the artichoke from turning brown, halved lemons are rubbed over them.

4. In a big pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Squeeze the juice from the other half of the lemon into the water. Add the artichokes and cook them for 20 to 30 minutes, until they are tender.

5. When they have finished cooking, take the artichokes out of the pot and let them cool a bit. Slice them in half and use a spoon to scoop out the fuzzy center, the choke.

6. In a skillet over medium heat, warm extra virgin olive oil. Add minced garlic and cook until so fragrant, you can’t resist. That’s about 1 minute.

7. Combine the heavy cream, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk them together vigorously to mix them thoroughly. Pour the mixture into the saucepan and let it simmer with the other ingredients—stirring occasionally, of course—for 8 minutes.

8. Artichoke halves should be arranged, cut side up, in a baking dish. Pour over them the cream sauce.

9. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Evenly coat the artichokes with this mixture.

10. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the topping is a golden brown. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley and enjoy.

Artichokes Au Gratin Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Large pot
3. Skillet
4. Baking dish
5. Knife
6. Cutting board
7. Spoon
8. Lemon juicer (optional)
9. Whisk
10. Mixing bowls (at least two)
11. Measuring spoons
12. Measuring cups

FAQ

• Q: How do I prepare the artichokes?A: Trim the artichoke stems and take off the outer leaves that are tough and likely to be inedible. The tops of the artichokes should be cut off and the exposed parts should be rubbed with lemon halves.
• Q: Can I use marinated artichokes instead of fresh ones?A: For best results in achieving the texture and flavor this recipe calls for, fresh artichokes are recommended, but marinated artichokes could be used in a pinch, adjusting cooking time as they are usually pre-cooked.
• Q: What type of breadcrumbs should I use?A: Utilize plain or seasoned breadcrumbs. For additional crispiness, panko can also be employed.
• Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?A: Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a little flour to thicken it up for a lighter version.
• Q: Is there a dairy-free alternative to Parmesan cheese?A nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan alternative can make this dish dairy-free.
• Q: How can I make it gluten-free?A: Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a must, as are all other gluten-free ingredients. Check for certification.

Artichokes Au Gratin Recipe Substitutions and Variations

For Parmesan cheese:
Use either Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano if you want a flavor profile similar to that of Parmesan.
For heavy cream:
Replace with half-and-half or a dairy-free option such as coconut cream for a more lithe version.
For breadcrumbs:
For added crunch, you can use panko. For a gluten-free option, use ground almonds.
For olive oil:
Consider using avocado oil or grapeseed oil as a substitute that is neutral in taste.

Pro Tips

1. Salt Water Tip: When boiling the artichokes in salted water, ensure the water is well-salted, like seawater. This helps season the artichokes from the inside out, enhancing their flavor.