Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy dish that combines tender broccoli with a rich cheese sauce, often topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer. This comforting casserole is perfect as a side dish or a main course, and it’s a great way to enjoy vegetables!
Ingredients List
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (for topping, optional)
Timing
Making Broccoli Cheese Casserole takes about 45 minutes. Here’s a breakdown of the timing:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
- Cook Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside. If using frozen broccoli, ensure it is thawed and drained.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Broccoli and Cheese Mixture
- Combine: Add the cooked broccoli to the cheese mixture and stir until the broccoli is evenly coated.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
- Make the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until well combined. If desired, stir in the additional shredded cheese.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 7: Bake
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Step 8: Serve
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving (based on a recipe yielding 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 10g |
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli will give you the best flavor and texture.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to use different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or Gruyère, for a unique flavor.
- Add More Veggies: You can add other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots for additional nutrition and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Broccoli: Be careful not to overcook the broccoli before adding it to the casserole, as it will cook further in the oven.
- Not Greasing the Baking Dish: Ensure your baking dish is well-greased to prevent sticking.
Storing Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
Conclusion
Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy cheese filling and crunchy topping, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh salad.
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Ingredients
- For the Casserole:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (for topping, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
- Cook Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside. If using frozen broccoli, ensure it is thawed and drained.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Broccoli and Cheese Mixture
- Combine: Add the cooked broccoli to the cheese mixture and stir until the broccoli is evenly coated.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
- Make the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until well combined. If desired, stir in the additional shredded cheese.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 7: Bake
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Step 8: Serve
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
