Description
Famous Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a comforting, creamy dish made with tender broccoli, a velvety cheese sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight meal, this casserole is a crowd favorite! #BroccoliCasserole #CheeseCasserole #ComfortFood #FamilyMeal #VegetarianRecipe
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 pounds broccoli
- Kosher or sea salt, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided, plus more for greasing the dish
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cut the heads of broccoli into florets (about 10 cups). Trim the dry ends off the stems, remove the outer layer with a peeler, and cut into coins.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and cook the broccoli stems for 3 minutes. Add the florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Butter a 9×13-inch glass casserole dish.
- In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs, toss to coat, and cook until golden brown (2-3 minutes). Set aside.
- In the same pot, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Add flour and whisk until a smooth paste forms. Cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and bring to a simmer, stirring often until the mixture thickens (2-3 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until smooth.
- Transfer the drained broccoli to the casserole dish, season with salt and pepper, and drizzle the cheese sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese and toasted breadcrumbs over the casserole.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown. Let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra crunch, you can add more toasted breadcrumbs on top.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days if tightly sealed and cooled completely.
- Ensure the broccoli is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 35mg