Italian Broccoli Casserole
Dive into the comforting flavors of an *Italian Broccoli Casserole*, a cheesy, savory delight that's perfect as a side dish or a hearty vegetarian main. Featuring tender blanched broccoli florets smothered in a rich, velvety sauce made with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, this casserole is enhanced with aromatic Italian seasoning and a touch of garlic powder for authentic Mediterranean flair. A golden breadcrumb topping, lightly crisped with olive oil, adds the perfect crunch to every bite. Quick to prepare with just 15 minutes of prep time and baked to bubbly perfection, this dish brings a rustic, homestyle charm to any table. Ideal for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that combines simple ingredients with bold Italian-inspired flavors.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 6 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups milk
- 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 cups breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Continue stirring until it thickens and forms a smooth sauce (about 3-4 minutes).
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until the cheeses are melted and fully incorporated.
Transfer the blanched broccoli to the prepared casserole dish and pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top, ensuring all of the broccoli is coated.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil and stir until evenly moistened. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the broccoli and cheese layer.
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Italian Broccoli Casserole as a flavorful side or a standalone dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
315 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 20.0 g | 26% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.3 g | 56% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 48 mg | 16% | |
| Sodium | 741 mg | 32% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 17.9 g | 6% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.7 g | ||
| Protein | 18.1 g | 36% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.1 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 439 mg | 34% | |
| Iron | 1.5 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 131 mg | 3% | |
*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.
