Transform your broccoli side dish into a gourmet delight with 'Broccoli En Bleu Ala Rick,' a decadent baked casserole that’s as rich in flavor as it is in texture. Tender, blanched broccoli florets are smothered in a luxurious, velvety blue cheese sauce infused with garlic and onion notes, then topped with golden, crispy panko breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch. This elegant dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, is easy to make and ready in just 40 minutes. With its creamy, tangy flavor profile and vibrant presentation, this updated classic will have everyone reaching for seconds. Serve it as a standout side or enjoy it as a lighter vegetarian main, garnished with a touch of fresh parsley for a burst of color.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring continuously.
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the blue cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Place the blanched broccoli in a lightly greased 9x9-inch baking dish. Pour the blue cheese sauce evenly over the broccoli, ensuring all florets are well coated.
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs and olive oil. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the broccoli and sauce.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Calories |
1110 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 75.1 g | 96% | |
| Saturated Fat | 38.2 g | 191% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 170 mg | 57% | |
| Sodium | 2756 mg | 120% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 70.9 g | 26% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.7 g | 38% | |
| Total Sugars | 23.8 g | ||
| Protein | 48.9 g | 98% | |
| Vitamin D | 4.5 mcg | 22% | |
| Calcium | 1111 mg | 85% | |
| Iron | 5.9 mg | 33% | |
| Potassium | 846 mg | 18% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.