Ultimate Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

We don’t know about you, but every once in a while, we just want a giant helping of ooey, gooey melted cheese. And since eating a heap of melted cheese by the spoonful is most likely frowned upon and doesn’t quite cover all the important nutrients, it helps to add something else to it. Macaroni, rice, toasted bread… they’re all great vehicles for cheese, but broccoli and cheese are a match made in heaven as far as we’re concerned. And this casserole is the perfect showcase for that majestic duo.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

While it’s certainly unapologetic in its level of cheesiness, this dish has a surprising amount of veggies packed in. The tomato, carrot, and onion are a nice contrast to the tender broccoli and the delicious cheesy sauce that ties them all together. We know it’s common to use a can of soup to throw this kind of casserole together, but we like to make our sauce from scratch when we can. It helps us control the sodium and the taste, and it’s really simple and quick to mix up. It’s totally worth the small amount of extra effort. After all, it rarely gets better than homemade!

Broccoli cheese casserole is a well-loved dish in so many homes, but we can’t help thinking that this one is the best. If you’re going to have something cheesy, you might as well go for it, and this dish sure delivers. There’s no reason to be shy about cheese; we know we aren’t!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Large saucepan
• Baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Whisk

Ingredients

• 7 cups (about 2 heads) broccoli florets, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, thinly sliced
• 1 tomato, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 3 cups whole milk
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 6 tablespoons flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 tsp salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a large baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the broccoli until crisp-tender, about 4-5 minutes. Drain well.
3. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add onions and carrots, and sauté until softened, about 4-6 minutes.
4. Add flour to the saucepan and cook, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes.
5. Slowly pour in the milk, stirring constantly, and cook until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat as soon as it reaches a boil.
6. Stir in 2 1/2 cups of the grated cheese and salt until the cheese has melted. Add beaten eggs and tomatoes, stirring to combine.
7. Combine the broccoli and cheese mixture in the baking dish. Top with the remaining 1 1/2 cups of cheese.
8. Bake until bubbly and golden brown, about 45 minutes. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the broccoli is well-drained to avoid excess water in your casserole.
• Whisk the milk gradually to prevent lumps in your sauce.
• Feel free to adjust the cheese quantity based on your preference for cheesiness.

Additional Tips or Variations

Try adding some cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor or mix in some cooked rice for a heartier dish. You can also swap cheddar for a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a different taste.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 450
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 35g
• Fiber: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to one day. When ready to serve, bake it as directed.

Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the casserole.

What can I serve with this casserole? This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Ultimate Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is comfort food at its best, combining the richness of cheese with the goodness of vegetables. We hope you give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out. Feel free to share your creations and any tweaks you made in the comments below!