Broccoli Cheese Casserole is made with fresh broccoli florets, creamy cheese sauce, and a crispy topping that makes it a perfect side dish or main course. The broccoli is lightly steamed to retain its bright green color and crisp texture, then mixed with a velvety cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar cheese, milk, and butter. The casserole is topped with a crunchy layer of breadcrumbs and more melted cheese, giving it a satisfying texture and flavor.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 heads of broccoli, chopped into florets
- 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of butter
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
-
In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes or until they are tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
-
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
-
Whisk in the flour and continue to stir until the mixture turns golden brown.
-
Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
-
Once the mixture has thickened, add the grated cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese, stirring until melted.
-
Add salt and pepper to taste.
-
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, arrange the blanched broccoli florets in an even layer.
-
Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli, making sure it is evenly distributed.
-
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbly.
-
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information:
This recipe makes 6 servings. Each serving contains approximately:
- 280 calories
- 19g fat
- 14g carbohydrates
- 16g protein
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a family dinner or holiday gathering. The combination of tender-crisp broccoli florets, creamy cheese sauce, and crispy breadcrumbs creates a satisfying and flavorful dish that everyone will love. Plus, with the added nutritional benefits of broccoli, this casserole is a healthy addition to any meal.
