Description
A comforting, golden-baked casserole featuring tender broccoli florets smothered in a velvety cheese sauce, topped with crispy breadcrumbs for the ultimate cozy side or vegetarian main.
Ingredients
- Broccoli Florets: 6 cups – The fresh, crunchy base of the dish.
- Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons – Creates richness in the sauce.
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup – Helps thicken the sauce.
- Whole Milk: 2 cups – The creamy foundation of the cheese sauce.
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup – Adds extra richness and smoothness.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded – Bold flavor that shines through.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup shredded – Adds gooey meltability.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated – A salty, nutty kick.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon – Enhances flavor.
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon – Adds subtle savory depth.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon – Balances flavors.
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon – Adds gentle heat.
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup – Crispy topping for texture.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon – Helps toast breadcrumbs golden brown.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Add cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Blanch broccoli in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water.
- Assemble the Dish: Place broccoli in the baking dish. Pour cheese sauce evenly over the top.
- Cook to Perfection: Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over broccoli and sauce.
- Finishing Touches: Bake uncovered for 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let rest 5 minutes before serving hot.
Notes
- Toast breadcrumbs before baking for extra crunch.
- Use fresh broccoli instead of frozen for best texture.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for warmth.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley before serving for color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Cheesy broccoli bake, broccoli casserole, vegetarian casserole, comfort food, baked broccoli with cheese