simple broccoli cheese casserole recipe

The Best simple broccoli cheese casserole recipe

I’ve been making this simple broccoli cheese casserole recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of steamed broccoli, melted cheddar cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping is a match made in heaven.

My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients and mix everything together before popping it in the oven. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion like holidays or potlucks. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a great way to get my family to eat their greens – who doesn’t love broccoli smothered in cheese?

As an added bonus, this casserole is incredibly easy to customize with your favorite cheeses, meats, or vegetables. I’ve even added diced ham or cooked bacon to give it an extra boost of flavor. The best part?

It’s ready in under an hour, making it the perfect solution for busy families like mine. My kids always ask for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!) , and I’m happy to oblige because I know they’re getting a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals from the broccoli.

Plus, the cheese adds creaminess and flavor without adding too much fat or calories. As we all know, eating well doesn’t have to be complicated – sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying.

Simple Broccoli Cheese Casserole

4.7 from 1624 votes

A comforting and easy-to-make broccoli cheese casserole perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender broccoli florets are combined with a creamy cheese sauce and baked to perfection.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

πŸ₯˜Ingredients

For the Casserole

2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp olive oil

πŸ‘¨β€πŸ³Directions

1Preheat oven to 375Β°F.
2Steam broccoli florets for 5-7 minutes until tender.
Set aside.
3In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4Add flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until mixture is smooth and bubbly.
5Gradually whisk in milk, cooking for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and reaches a simmer.
6Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
7In a mixing bowl, combine steamed broccoli and cheese sauce.
8Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
9In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs and olive oil.
10Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the broccoli and cheese mixture.
11Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
12Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
13The casserole should be hot and the cheese should be fully melted and gooey.

πŸ”§Equipment

Baking dish
Saucepan
Mixing bowl
Oven

πŸ“ŠNutrition Facts (per serving)

πŸ”₯Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 15gπŸ’›Saturated Fat: 9g❀️Cholesterol: 45mgπŸ§‚Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 35gπŸ₯¦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 6gπŸ₯©Protein: 18g

πŸ“Notes

Tips: You can add cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein.

Watch Video Of How Simple Broccoli Cheese Casserole Works

This simple broccoli cheese casserole recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s always a good idea to have on hand for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and can be reheated easily throughout the week. For storage ideas, consider dividing leftovers into individual portions and freezing them for later use – perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights when you need something quick and easy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Q: What type of cheese should I use in this recipe?

I recommend using a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for the best flavor. You can also experiment with other types of cheese like Parmesan or Gruyère for a unique twist.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients such as cooked bacon, diced ham, chopped vegetables like carrots or zucchini, or even cooked chicken.

Q: How do I store leftover casserole?

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until hot and bubbly.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! Freeze individual portions of casserole in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat from frozen in the oven.

Q: What if I don’t like broccoli?

No worries! You can substitute steamed broccoli with other vegetables like cauliflower, green beans, or even sliced carrots.

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