This recipe for Hard-Boiled Egg Gratin with Béchamel Sauce is an easy yet elegant dish that’s perfect as an appetizer, side, or light meal. The combination of creamy béchamel sauce, hard-boiled eggs, and a crispy, cheesy topping makes it irresistible. Whether you’re hosting guests or looking to elevate a simple dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
★Ingredients
For the Béchamel Sauce*
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
2 cups whole milk (or 2% milk)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gratin*
1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite melting cheese)
6 large hard-boiled eggs, peeled and sliced
2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
★Instructions
- Prepare the Béchamel Sauce
- In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk constantly until you have a smooth paste (roux). Cook for 1–2 minutes without letting it brown.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Season with Dijon mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble the Gratin
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Arrange the sliced hard-boiled eggs in a single layer in the baking dish.
- Pour the prepared béchamel sauce evenly over the eggs, ensuring all are well-coated.
- Add Toppings
- Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese over the sauce, followed by the Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Garnish and Serve
- Once out of the oven, let the gratin cool for a few minutes before garnishing with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve warm as an appetizer, side, or light meal.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or crusty bread. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture of this unique gratin!