Description
A delicious and creamy cheesy baked broccoli casserole perfect for a family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
-
Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil spray.
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Cook Broccoli:
- Steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
-
Make Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until smooth.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well.
-
Assemble Casserole:
- Place the cooked broccoli in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli, ensuring even coverage.
-
Prepare Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese-covered broccoli.
-
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- For added flavor, mix in some cooked bacon or ham before baking.
- Use a combination of cheeses such as mozzarella and cheddar for a richer taste.
- Try adding a layer of cooked rice or quinoa at the bottom for a more filling dish.
- You can substitute regular breadcrumbs with panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- For a spicier version, mix in some chili flakes or diced jalapeños into the cheese sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole