Creamy Broccoli Cheese Casserole
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Creamy Broccoli Cheese Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole bubbling away in the oven. My cherished recipe for creamy broccoli cheese casserole never fails to bring a smile to my family’s faces. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a holiday gathering, this dish combines tender broccoli with rich cheeses and a crispy topping that elevates it from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s easy to prepare and delightful enough to make you want seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This creamy broccoli cheese casserole is not just a delicious meal but also a versatile one. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick dinner solution or someone wanting to impress guests at a brunch, this casserole delivers every time. The blend of fresh or frozen broccoli with melted cheddar and tangy Parmesan creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and indulgent.
"This casserole was a hit at my family dinner! The kids couldn’t get enough of the cheesy goodness, and I loved that it was so simple to make."
What’s more, this dish is incredibly budget-friendly. With ingredients that can be found in most kitchens, you can whip it up without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for the little ones!
Step-by-Step Overview
Creating this creamy broccoli cheese casserole is a true breeze. You’ll be prepping the broccoli, making a rich cheese sauce, and then layering everything before it bakes to perfection. Here’s how it all comes together:
- Prepare the broccoli.
- Make the creamy cheese sauce.
- Assemble the casserole with broccoli, cheese, and breadcrumbs.
- Bake until golden and bubbly.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to make your creamy broccoli cheese casserole:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (Frozen broccoli works as a substitute.)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (Key for that melty goodness.)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Adds tang and depth.)
- 1 cup heavy cream (For richness.)
- 1/2 cup milk (Whole milk is favored, but skim is fine.)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (Essential for the cheese sauce.)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (To thicken the sauce.)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (Flavor enhancer.)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (Brings depth to the dish.)
- Salt and pepper (To taste.)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (For that perfect crispy topping.)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (Helps the breadcrumbs crisp.)
Directions to Follow
Let’s break down the cooking process into simple steps:
Prepare the Broccoli:
- If using fresh broccoli, steam it until just tender and bright green, about 3-4 minutes. If using frozen, just thaw and drain.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw taste.
- Slowly add the heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.
- Remove from heat and fold in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan until fully melted.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli with the cheese sauce. Toss until well coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil, then sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbling and golden on top.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving creamy broccoli cheese casserole is all about enhancing its comfort food vibe. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh garden salad or some roasted chicken. A light vinaigrette salad can balance out the richness of the casserole wonderfully. You can also serve it as a side dish alongside grilled meats or alongside a hearty soup for a cozy dinner.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your creamy broccoli cheese casserole fresh, allow it to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
When reheating, ensure that it’s heated thoroughly to a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving again. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy topping.
Pro Chef Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne for a little kick.
- You can switch up the cheese — Gruyère or mozzarella can bring different tastes to the party.
- Try incorporating cooked chicken or ham into the mix for a more filling meal.
Creative Twists
Feel free to personalize your creamy broccoli cheese casserole! Add cooked quinoa or rice for additional texture, or swap out the broccoli for other vegetables like cauliflower or asparagus. You can also try gluten-free breadcrumbs if you’re looking for a dietary swap.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare?
The overall prep and cooking time is about 45 minutes.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain it before mixing with the cheese sauce.
What’s the best way to freeze the casserole?
Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight before reheating.
With its delicious blend of creamy cheese and nutritious broccoli, this casserole is bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy creating and sharing this comforting dish!
Creamy Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- If using fresh broccoli, steam it until just tender and bright green, about 3-4 minutes. If using frozen, just thaw and drain.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw taste.
- Slowly add the heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.
- Remove from heat and fold in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan until fully melted.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli with the cheese sauce. Toss until well coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil, then sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbling and golden on top.
