Creamy Broccoli Cheese Bake

This creamy broccoli cheese casserole transforms ordinary broccoli into a comforting side dish that even vegetable skeptics can't resist. The combination of tender broccoli florets smothered in a rich, velvety cheese sauce creates the ultimate comfort food that pairs perfectly with nearly any main course.

I first created this casserole when trying to convince my picky nephew to eat vegetables. The cheese sauce worked such magic that he asked for seconds, and now this dish appears at every family gathering by popular demand.

Ingredients

• Broccoli florets: Provide the perfect texture and nutrition base while soaking up all that cheesy goodness
• Cheddar cheese: Creates that classic sharp flavor; look for a medium or sharp variety for more flavor impact
• Cream cheese: Adds incredible creaminess and helps create a smooth texture without requiring a flour roux
• Milk: Thins the sauce to perfect consistency; whole milk works best but 2% is fine too
• Breadcrumbs: Create that essential crispy golden topping; panko style delivers the best crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Broccoli:

Steam 3 cups of broccoli florets until just tender, about 4 minutes. You want them slightly undercooked as they will continue cooking in the oven. Immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and maintain that vibrant green color.

Create the Cheese Sauce:

In a medium saucepan over medium low heat, combine 1/2 cup cream cheese with 1/2 cup milk. Stir constantly until the cream cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth, about 3 minutes. Reduce heat to low and add 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving 1/2 cup for topping. Stir until melted and velvety.

Combine and Assemble:

Gently fold the steamed broccoli into the cheese sauce, ensuring each floret gets thoroughly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x9 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by 1/4 cup breadcrumbs.

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Place the casserole in a preheated 350°F oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes. For an extra golden topping, switch to broil for the final 1 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. The casserole is ready when bubbling around the edges with a beautifully browned top.

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My favorite part of this dish is watching how the cheese creates those perfect little browned bits on top. My grandmother always said those crispy edges were the sign of a properly made casserole, and I find myself deliberately seeking them out with each serving.

Make It Your Own

This basic recipe welcomes customization based on what you have available. Try adding cauliflower for variety, or mix in some cooked quinoa or rice to transform it into a complete meal. For extra protein, stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or diced ham before baking.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1 2 minutes until heated through. For best results when reheating the entire casserole, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 15 20 minutes, removing the foil for the last 5 minutes to recrisp the top.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve alongside a simple green salad and crusty bread. During the holidays, it makes a crowd pleasing alternative to traditional green bean casserole and fits perfectly on a buffet table.

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Serve this casserole and watch it disappear—it's always the first dish gone at any dinner party or potluck.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare this broccoli cheese casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Prepare everything but don't add the breadcrumbs yet. Cover and refrigerate, then add breadcrumbs just before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

→ What can I use instead of breadcrumbs for the topping?

Crushed crackers (like Ritz), crushed potato chips, crushed corn flakes, or panko make excellent alternatives. For a low-carb option, try pork rinds or a mixture of almond flour and grated parmesan cheese.

→ Can I add protein to this casserole?

Absolutely! Cooked diced chicken, ham, or bacon make excellent additions. Simply fold them into the broccoli and cheese mixture before baking. For a vegetarian protein boost, consider mixing in some cooked quinoa or white beans.

→ What other vegetables work well in this dish?

Cauliflower is the most common substitute, but you can also try a mix of vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers. Just ensure any added vegetables are pre-cooked to a similar tenderness as the broccoli before mixing with the cheese sauce.

→ How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?

The casserole is done when the edges are bubbling, the center is hot throughout, and the breadcrumb topping has turned golden brown. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil and continue baking until heated through.

→ Can I freeze this broccoli cheese casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. For best results, freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Already-baked casserole can also be frozen in individual portions for quick meals.