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Broccoli Cheese Casserole

This broccoli cheese casserole is a warm, comforting dish featuring tender broccoli coated in a rich, melted cheese sauce, topped with crispy breadcrumbs. The dish is baked until bubbly and golden, resulting in a cozy, satisfying texture with a delightful crunch on top. It’s a versatile recipe that feels like a hug in every bite, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 head broccoli washed and cut into florets
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese preferably sharp
  • 1 cup milk whole or full-fat
  • 2 tablespoons butter plus extra for greasing
  • 2 tablespoons flour all-purpose
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs for topping
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon hot sauce optional
  • ½ teaspoon paprika for breadcrumbs
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish
  • Oven
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a baking dish with butter.
  2. Wash the broccoli thoroughly, then cut into bite-sized florets. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the broccoli, and blanch for about 2 minutes until vibrant green and slightly crisp. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color and smells slightly nutty.
  4. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking vigorously to create a smooth, lump-free sauce. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Stir in the shredded cheese, onion powder, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Continue mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
  6. Gently fold the blanched broccoli into the cheese sauce, ensuring each floret is well coated. Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  7. In a small bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with 1 teaspoon of melted butter, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the cheese to firm up slightly. The top should be crisp, and the cheese sauce bubbling and rich.
  10. Slice and serve your cozy broccoli cheese casserole hot, enjoying the gooey cheese, tender broccoli, and crunchy topping with a side salad or crusty bread.

Notes

For extra flavor, add cooked bacon or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. Use fresh broccoli for best texture and color. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven until bubbly.