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Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Casserole Recipe

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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Casserole features fresh broccoli florets smothered in a rich, homestyle cheddar cheese sauce, topped with a crisp and buttery panko breadcrumb crust. Perfect as a comforting side dish or a vegetarian main, this casserole blends creamy textures with a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Broccoli and Cheese Sauce

  • 8 cups broccoli florets (about 2 heads)
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup water or chicken broth
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Crunchy Topping

  • ½ cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
  2. Prepare Broccoli: Place the broccoli florets evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  3. Make Roux: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 10 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and garlic, whisking continuously for one minute to cook the flour without browning.
  5. Incorporate Liquids: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until fully combined and smooth.
  6. Thicken Sauce: Whisk in the water or chicken broth and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
  7. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Remove the skillet from heat, then whisk in shredded cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
  8. Combine Sauce and Broccoli: Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli in the baking dish and stir gently to coat all the florets evenly.
  9. Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko bread crumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
  10. Add Topping to Casserole: Sprinkle the buttered panko crumbs evenly over the broccoli and cheese mixture.
  11. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the broccoli to soften.
  12. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes to brown the topping and make the casserole bubbly.
  13. Rest: Remove from oven and let the casserole stand for 5 to 8 minutes before serving to set and cool slightly.
  14. Final Seasoning: Taste the casserole and adjust salt and pepper as desired before enjoying.

Notes

  • Using chicken broth instead of water adds more flavor to the cheese sauce.
  • Fresh broccoli provides the best texture, but frozen can be used if thawed and drained well.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.
  • To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, ensure the chicken broth is replaced with vegetable broth or water.
  • Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://myeasyplate.com/creamy-cheesy-broccoli-casserole-recipe/