Grab For Eats 
Dive into the world of comfort food with our easy cheesy broccoli casserole recipe. This dish is a symphony of flavors, combining the freshness of broccoli with the creaminess of cheese, all under a crispy bread crumb topping.
The preparation is simple and straightforward, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The cheese lends a rich, creamy texture that beautifully complements the slight bitterness of the broccoli. The bread crumb topping adds a delightful crunch, creating a contrast that will have you coming back for more. Experience the comforting flavors of this cheesy broccoli casserole and enjoy a meal that is as nutritious as it is delicious. This is more than just a dish; it is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole Recipe Tips
The Many Benefits of Broccoli
- Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable related to cabbage, kale, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. 1
- It is rich in antioxidants and other beneficial plant compounds, and may offer several benefits, especially for eye health, heart health, and disease prevention. 2
- Broccoli is high in many nutrients, including fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, and potassium. 3
- Raw broccoli contains almost 90% water, 7% carbs, 3% protein, and almost no fat. 4
- Broccoli is very low in calories, providing only 35 calories per cup, or 90 grams. 5
Choosing the Best Broccoli for Your Casserole Recipe
When it comes to creating a delicious and nutritious cheesy broccoli casserole, the quality of your ingredients can make all the difference. One of the key ingredients, of course, is the broccoli itself. Here are some tips on how to choose the best broccoli for your casserole recipe.
- Look for Vibrant Color: The first thing to look for when choosing broccoli is its color. Fresh broccoli should have a deep green color. If the broccoli has yellow or brown spots, it is a sign that it is starting to spoil and will not provide the best flavor for your casserole.
- Check the Stalks and Stems: The stalks and stems of the broccoli should be firm and strong. If they are limp or rubbery, the broccoli is past its prime. The stems should also be a lighter green than the florets.
- Examine the Florets: The florets should be tight and closed. If they are open and flowering, the broccoli is too mature and will have a bitter taste. The florets should also be free of any dark spots or signs of mold.
- Smell the Broccoli: Fresh broccoli has a light, earthy scent. If it has a strong, unpleasant odor, it is likely spoiled and should not be used in your casserole.
- Consider the Size: For a casserole, you will want to choose broccoli with small to medium-sized florets. These will cook more evenly and provide a better texture in your dish.
Remember, the best-tasting dishes start with the best ingredients. By following these tips, you will be able to choose the best broccoli for your cheesy broccoli casserole. Happy cooking!
In our cheesy broccoli casserole recipe, the choice of cheese can significantly influence the flavor. Cheddar is a classic choice, offering a tangy richness. However, experimenting with Gouda or Fontina can add a smoky or mild flavor respectively. Combining cheeses can also create a depth of flavor.
The cheese not only contributes to the creamy texture but also enhances the overall taste of the casserole. As for the topping, while bread crumbs provide a delightful crunch, alternatives like crushed crackers or even French-fried onions can add a different kind of texture and flavor.
How to Make Easy Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
Preheat the oven: Set temperature to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your baking dish.
Prepare the broccoli: Cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces and steam until just tender, about 5 minutes. Spread the steamed broccoli in the baking dish.
Make the cheese sauce: In your saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk, then cook and stir until the sauce thickens and comes to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the casserole: Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli in the baking dish, stirring to ensure all the broccoli is coated. Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the top.
Bake the casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.
Useful Tools to Make Easy Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
Cooking Utensils
- Saucepan: Used to create the cheese sauce. A medium-sized saucepan is perfect as it provides enough space for stirring without spilling.
- 9″ x 13″ Baking Dish: This size is ideal for a family-sized casserole. It allows the heat to distribute evenly, ensuring all parts of the casserole are cooked perfectly.
- Whisk: Helps combine the flour, milk, and cheese into a smooth sauce.
- Knife and Cutting Board: Needed for chopping the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
Easy Cheesy Broccoli Casserole with Crispy Bread Crumb Topping
Equipment
- Saucepan
- 9" x 13" Baking Dish
- Whisk
- Cutting Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 heads Broccoli
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 1 cup Milk
- 2 tbsps Butter
- 2 tbsps All-purpose Flour
- 1 cup Bread crumbs
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pre-heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your baking dish.
- Prepare the broccoli: Cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces and steam until just tender, about 5 minutes. Spread the steamed broccoli in the baking dish.
- Make the cheese sauce: In your saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk, then cook and stir until the sauce thickens and comes to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli in the baking dish, stirring to ensure all the broccoli is coated. Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake the casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.
