broccoli and cheese casserole easy recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
broccoli and cheese casserole easy recipe
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The Best broccoli and cheese casserole easy recipe

I’m so excited to share this easy broccoli and cheese casserole recipe with you all. This dish is a staple in our household, and for good reason. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

My family loves it because it’s easy to make and packed with nutrients. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a side dish, a main course, or even as a comforting snack after a long day.

I’ve been making this recipe for years, and I’ve tweaked it to perfection over time. Today, I’ll share my secrets with you, so you can enjoy this delicious casserole as much as we do. The combination of tender broccoli, gooey cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs is truly unbeatable.

Plus, the process of making it is ridiculously simple – just chop some veggies, mix them with cheese and pasta, and bake until golden brown. Trust me when I say your family will adore this casserole just as much as mine does! The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly healthy – loaded with vitamins A and C from the broccoli, calcium from the cheese, and complex carbs from the pasta.

We love serving it alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables for an added nutritional boost.

Easy Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

Easy Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

4.6 from 891 votes

A simple and creamy broccoli and cheese casserole made with tender broccoli florets, a rich cheese sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. This comforting side dish comes together quickly with pantry staples and is perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Topping

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add the broccoli florets to the boiling water and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn bright green and are just tender.
4Drain the broccoli in a colander and set aside.
5In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter.
6Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
7Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously.
8Add the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
9Cook over medium heat, whisking often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3 to 4 minutes.
10Remove the saucepan from the heat.
11Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
12Place the blanched broccoli in an 8×8-inch baking dish in an even layer.
13Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli, spreading it to cover all the florets.
14In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the 1 tablespoon of melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
15Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.
16Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown.
17Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Medium saucepan
Whisk
8×8-inch baking dish
Small bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 55mg🧂Sodium: 520mg🌾Total Carbs: 24g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 16g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese and milk. You can also add cooked chicken or rice to make it a main dish.

Watch Video Of How Easy Broccoli and Cheese Casserole Works

This broccoli and cheese casserole is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a party or just need a quick dinner solution. And don’t even get me started on how well it freezes!

Simply thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat in the microwave when you’re ready. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides or enjoy as is – either way, your family will adore this comforting casserole.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli and Cheese Casserole

Q: What type of cheese should I use for this casserole?

A: You can use any type of cheese you like – cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan – but I highly recommend using a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for the perfect balance of flavors.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

A: While fresh broccoli is always preferred, frozen broccoli will do in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw it properly before using.

Q: How long can I store this casserole in the fridge before reheating?

A: You can store this casserole in the fridge for up to 3 days before reheating – just let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the pasta?

A: Yes! You can substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

Q: Do I need to add any extra seasonings to this casserole?

A: While the recipe calls for salt and pepper to taste, feel free to add any other seasonings you like – garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs work beautifully in this dish.

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