Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this irresistible Cheesy Broccoli Bake—a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender broccoli florets with a luscious homemade cheese sauce and a golden, crispy panko topping. Perfectly seasoned with garlic powder, parmesan, and sharp cheddar cheese, this recipe balances rich, cheesy indulgence with the fresh, vibrant flavor of broccoli. Quick to prepare and oven-baked to bubbly perfection in just 30 minutes, this family-friendly casserole is ideal as a hearty side dish or even a vegetarian main course. Whether you're looking to elevate your holiday spread or add a comforting classic to your meal rotation, this Cheesy Broccoli Bake delivers savory satisfaction in every bite.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking dish.
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, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and the parmesan cheese. Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, and mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Spread the blanched broccoli evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli, making sure it is evenly coated.
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese and broccoli. Top with the remaining 0.5 cups of cheddar cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Broccoli Bake!
Calories |
2111 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 147.1 g | 189% | |
| Saturated Fat | 85.7 g | 428% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 419 mg | 140% | |
| Sodium | 3957 mg | 172% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 107.9 g | 39% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.6 g | 41% | |
| Total Sugars | 31.8 g | ||
| Protein | 111.9 g | 224% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.4 mcg | 27% | |
| Calcium | 2873 mg | 221% | |
| Iron | 6.7 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 827 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.