Discover a wonderfully comforting way to enjoy leafy greens with this Mustard Greens Gratin. This recipe transforms peppery mustard greens into a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying bake that the whole family will adore. It’s a simple, nourishing dish that brings warmth and wholesome goodness to your dinner table.

🕒 TIME

Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total: 40 min

👨👩👧👦 Servings: 4

🛒 INGREDIENTS

• 1 large bunch mustard greens, washed, tough stems removed, and roughly chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk (or a plant-based alternative like oat milk)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
• ½ cup grated cheese (Gruyère, cheddar, or Parmesan work well)
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

👩🍳 PREPARATION

1. Prep the greens: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the chopped mustard greens for 2–3 minutes, just until wilted and tender. Drain them well and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This step is key to a creamy, not watery, gratin.
2. Create the creamy sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil or butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir for a minute, then gradually whisk in the milk (and cream, if using) until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken.
3. Combine the ingredients: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the blanched mustard greens and half of the grated cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if you like. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Bake to perfection: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and the breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly and delicious.

💡 Vitalicious Tip:
Make a big batch of the creamy sauce (béchamel) and store it in the fridge for up to three days. You can use it as a quick base for other vegetable gratins, pasta bakes, or even homemade mac and cheese.

💚 NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS

• Packed with vitamins: Mustard greens are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in Vitamins A, C, and K, which are wonderful for supporting your immune system and overall vitality.
• A comforting way to eat greens: This creamy, cheesy bake makes peppery greens approachable and delicious for everyone at the table, including picky eaters.
• Source of calcium: With milk and cheese, this gratin provides a good source of calcium, which is important for building strong bones and teeth.

🌸 VARIATION / OPTION

To make this recipe vegan, use olive oil instead of butter, a plant-based milk and cream alternative, and your favorite vegan shredded cheese. The result is just as creamy and comforting!

🌞 SERVING SUGGESTION

Serve the warm gratin straight from the oven in its beautiful baking dish. Spoon generous portions onto plates as a delicious side dish to roasted chicken or fish, or enjoy it on its own with crusty bread for a light meal. It’s a perfect Mama Vitalicious moment of cozy, shared comfort. 🧀

Discover more healthy and family-friendly ideas in our Vita-Meals section!

Frequently Asked Questions