Cheesy Broccoli Bake

Cheesy Broccoli Bake is a comforting and flavorful side dish that turns simple ingredients into a deliciously cheesy delight. With tender broccoli, gooey cheddar cheese, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

2 heads of broccoli
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons of butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cut the broccoli into florets and blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a baking dish, layer the blanched broccoli and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. In a small saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the breadcrumbs. Mix until the breadcrumbs are well coated with butter.
5. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the broccoli.
6. Top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 and requires approximately 10 minutes of prep time, with a cooking time of 25 minutes, totaling around 35 minutes.

Variations

• For added flavor, consider mixing in some cooked bacon or ham.
• Substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different taste.
• Add spices like garlic powder or paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick.
• Incorporate other vegetables, such as cauliflower or carrots, for a mixed veggie bake.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
   Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just thaw and drain before using.
2. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
   Yes, it can be prepared in advance and stored for easy reheating.
3. Can I make it gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the breadcrumbs altogether for a lower-carb option.
4. How do I know when it’s done?
   The cheese should be melted and bubbly, with a golden brown top.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
   It pairs nicely with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
6. Can I make this in advance?
   Yes, you can assemble it a day ahead and bake it right before serving.
7. What other cheeses can I use?
   Mozzarella, Gruyère, or a cheese blend can be great alternatives.
8. Can I add cream to make it richer?
   Yes, adding a bit of cream or cream cheese can create an even creamier texture.
9. How long can I keep leftovers?
   Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days for best quality.
10. Can I freeze this dish?
    It is best fresh, but you can freeze it before baking. Thaw in the fridge and bake as directed.

Conclusion

Cheesy Broccoli Bake is an easy, flavorful side dish that brings together the wholesome goodness of broccoli and the comforting flavors of cheese and breadcrumbs. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy vegetables while satisfying cheesy cravings. Give it a try, and watch it become a staple in your kitchen!

Print