broccoli cheese bake recipe

The Best broccoli cheese bake recipe

I’m so excited to share this broccoli cheese bake recipe with you all. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends.

The dish is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event. It’s also incredibly easy to make, which is a major bonus in my book.

The broccoli cheese bake recipe originated in the United States, where it was popularized in the mid-20th century as a convenient and satisfying meal option. It’s made with a mixture of steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, and a creamy bechamel sauce, all baked together in a single dish.

The result is a deliciously rich and savory casserole that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. One of the things I love most about this recipe is the way it brings people together.

Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck gathering, this broccoli cheese bake always seems to be the star of the show. And yet, despite its comforting reputation, this dish is also surprisingly healthy – thanks to the generous serving of broccoli and the use of low-fat cheese.

So if you’re looking for a reliable and delicious side dish that’s sure to impress your guests, look no further than this broccoli cheese bake recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure, and I’m confident you’ll love it just as much as I do.

Broccoli Cheese Bake

4.8 from 541 votes

A comforting and cheesy broccoli bake perfect for a family dinner. Tender broccoli florets are baked with a creamy cheese sauce and topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping.

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

🥘Ingredients

For the Broccoli

1 large head of broccoli
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Sauce

2 cups milk
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder

For the Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Cut the broccoli into florets and place them in a steamer basket over boiling water.
3Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
4In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5Add the flour and whisk to form a roux.
6Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and lightly golden.
7Gradually whisk in the milk and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
8Stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
9In a baking dish, toss the steamed broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
10Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli and stir to combine.
11Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top and drizzle with melted butter.
12Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
13Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Baking dish
Steamer or pot for boiling
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 50mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add cooked chicken or bacon to make it a heartier meal.

Broccoli cheese bake is always a good idea for any occasion. It is a versatile dish that can be served as a main dish or a side dish. It is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a simple weeknight meal.

It is also a great dish to make ahead of time and reheat. It is a comforting and hearty casserole that is sure to please everyone at the table. It is a dish that is easy to customize and can be made healthier by adding more vegetables or using low-fat ingredients.

It is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. It is a dish that is sure to become a family favorite. I highly recommend trying this recipe and making it a regular part of your meal rotation.

It is a dish that is sure to become a favorite in your home as well. It is a dish that is easy to make and is sure to please everyone at the table.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Cheese Bake

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

A: For this recipe, you’ll want to use a high-quality cheddar cheese that’s rich and tangy. Look for a brand that uses real milk and has minimal added ingredients.

Q: Can I substitute other types of vegetables for the broccoli?

A: While broccoli is the star of this dish, you can definitely experiment with other vegetables if you like. Cauliflower, carrots, and sweet potatoes are all good options – just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How do I prevent the cheese from becoming too browned or burnt during baking?

A: To prevent burning, make sure to cover the dish with foil during baking – especially if you’re using a darker-colored cheese.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight?

A: Yes – you can definitely make this recipe ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving.

Q: What are some good serving ideas for this dish?

A: This broccoli cheese bake is perfect served hot as an side dish or used as a base for other meals – such as adding cooked meats or eggs on top.

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