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Loaded Broccoli Cheese Casserole

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A creamy, cheesy casserole loaded with broccoli and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for comfort food cravings or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or thawed and drained frozen broccoli)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender but still firm, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
  4. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 3-4 minutes). Reduce heat and stir in cream cheese until melted.
  5. Add shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  6. Place the cooked broccoli in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top, ensuring all florets are coated.
  7. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole.
  8. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
  9. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

[‘Don’t overcook the broccoli to maintain a tender but firm texture.’, ‘Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.’, ‘Taste the cheese sauce before pouring to ensure it’s flavorful.’, ‘Cover the casserole loosely with foil if the topping browns too quickly.’, ‘This casserole freezes well, so consider making an extra batch.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli casserole, cheese casserole, comfort food, easy casserole, side dish, broccoli cheese bake

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/loaded-broccoli-cheese-casserole-recipe-thats-perfectly-comforting/