Description
Classic, comforting Broccoli Cheese Casserole. Tender broccoli in creamy cheese sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs. Perfect side dish.
Ingredients
- Broccoli: 2 large heads, cut into florets (about 6 cups)
- Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), unsalted
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup
- Milk: 3 cups, whole milk recommended for richness
- Chicken Broth: 1 cup
- Cheddar Cheese: 4 cups, shredded (sharp or medium, your preference!)
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Bread Crumbs: 1 cup, plain or panko
- Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender-crisp. To steam, place in a steamer basket over boiling water for 5-7 minutes. To blanch, boil for 3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath. Drain well.
- Chop Broccoli: Roughly chop the steamed or blanched broccoli.
- Melt Butter: Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Sauté Onion: Add the chopped onion to the melted butter and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Make Roux: Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a smooth, golden roux.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Thicken Sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Combine: Combine the chopped broccoli and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Gently fold to coat.
- Pour into Dish: Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter (if using).
- Sprinkle Topping: Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. If using, sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the bread crumbs are golden brown.
- Cool: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
- Vegetable Additions: Add cooked carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Meat Additions: Add cooked ham, bacon, or shredded chicken.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble ahead of time, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, and add breadcrumbs before baking. May need to add a few minutes to baking time.
- Freezing Instructions: Assemble in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking. May need to add 10-15 minutes to baking time if baking from frozen.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and bread crumbs.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
- Healthier Option: Use low-fat milk and cheese.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes