Creamy Broccoli Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for a showstopping side dish that wows at any gathering and still feels right at home on a weeknight table, look no further than this Creamy Broccoli Casserole. Imagine tender broccoli florets wrapped in a velvety cheese sauce, baked until bubbling with a crunchy golden crust that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re a broccoli superfan or just exploring new ways to love your veggies, this casserole turns simple ingredients into something downright crave-worthy. The Creamy Broccoli Casserole brings together comforting flavors, a little bit of nostalgia, and endless dinner possibilities—all in one pan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything you need for this Creamy Broccoli Casserole is easy to find, but each ingredient packs a punch. From the vibrant broccoli to the rich cheeses and crunchy panko, every component plays a crucial role in delivering both lush flavor and spot-on texture.

• Broccoli florets: Use small-to-medium pieces from about 2 large heads for that perfect bite and bright green pop.
• Unsalted butter (for sauce): Brings richness and allows you to control the seasoning from the start.
• Garlic cloves: Four cloves, minced, build a savory backbone that infuses the sauce with irresistible aroma.
• Plain flour: This helps thicken the sauce without overpowering the cheesy flavor.
• Milk (full or low fat): Preferably warmed—it makes the sauce silky smooth with no lumps.
• Chicken broth/stock: Adds a savory depth and keeps the sauce from feeling too heavy; warm it for best results.
• Cheddar cheese, freshly grated: For maximum melt and a sharp, cheesy punch, grate your own rather than using pre-shredded.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated for both the sauce and topping; its salty, nutty kick is essential.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste—these simple accents let all the other flavors shine.
• Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style crumbs make the top extra crispy and delicious.
• Unsalted butter (for topping): Melted and mixed with the panko, it adds a final layer of flavor and crunch.

How to Make Creamy Broccoli Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Topping

First things first, preheat your oven to 180C (350F) to make sure everything bakes evenly. While the oven heats, mix up your crunchy topping—a quick blend of panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated parmesan, a pinch of salt and pepper, and that glorious melted butter. Set the mixture aside so the flavors meld while you move on to the magical cheese sauce.

Step 2: Start the Cheese Sauce Base

In a large pot over medium heat, melt your butter. Toss in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—about one minute. This step releases the garlic’s flavor and gives the kitchen that inviting, comforting smell we all love.

Step 3: Build the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour and give everything a good stir, cooking for just a minute. This simple roux is the secret to that dreamy, smooth sauce. Stir constantly so nothing sticks or burns, and get ready for the next creamy step!

Step 4: Whisk in the Liquids

Now, slowly pour in half the warmed milk as you whisk—this prevents lumps and keeps things silky. After it’s fully incorporated, whisk in the remaining milk along with the warmed chicken broth. The sauce will look thin at first, but patience pays off.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Keep the pot over medium heat, whisking now and then (and a bit more often as it thickens) for 4 to 5 minutes. Once it coats the back of a wooden spoon and you can run a finger through the sauce with a line staying in place, you’re ready to add the cheese!

Step 6: Cheese Time

Take the pot off the heat and stir in the cheddar and parmesan until melty. Don’t stress if it doesn’t melt completely right away—the oven will finish the job. Taste and season with a sprinkle of salt if needed.

Step 7: Fold in the Broccoli

Pop in those broccoli florets, stirring well so each piece gets thoroughly coated in cheesy goodness. The sauce clings to all those nooks and crannies for next-level richness in every bite.

Step 8: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the saucy broccoli mixture to your favorite casserole dish, patting it down gently to fill every corner and make an even layer. Sprinkle the panko topping generously over everything for that hallmark crunch.

Step 9: Bake and Brown

Cover with foil (to trap in moisture and let everything meld) and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes, until the topping is deeply golden and you see bubbly edges.

Step 10: Rest and Serve

Let your Creamy Broccoli Casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving. This little pause means extra creamy slices and a safer bite!

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Casserole

Garnishes

Finish your Creamy Broccoli Casserole with a sprinkling of extra fresh parmesan, a handful of chopped parsley, or even a squeeze of lemon for brightness. These simple garnishes make each serving look and taste even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This casserole is so versatile! Pair it with roasted chicken, baked fish, or even a hearty grain salad. Its cheesy comfort also sits beautifully alongside holiday mains or a quick weeknight protein.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning Creamy Broccoli Casserole into individual ramekins for a dinner party, or pile it onto baked potatoes for a cozy, all-in-one meal. You can even nestle it into a crusty bread bowl for a casual, crowd-pleasing touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store your Creamy Broccoli Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays delicious for up to 3 days, and the flavors meld even more after a little rest.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well! Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly or transfer to a freezer-safe dish. It should keep for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before baking if making ahead, and add the topping just before baking.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a 180C/350F oven until hot throughout, or use the microwave for quick servings. If reheating from frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight first—cover with foil to keep the topping crisp until the last few minutes of baking.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli is a great shortcut. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid watery casserole, and chop any larger pieces into bite-sized chunks.

Is there a vegetarian way to make this dish?

Absolutely! Substitute vegetable broth for chicken stock, and you’ll still have a deeply flavorful base for your Creamy Broccoli Casserole without any meat products.

Can I make Creamy Broccoli Casserole ahead of time?

Definitely—assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. Simply add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

What cheeses work well besides cheddar and parmesan?

Try some gruyère for a nutty twist, or a bit of mozzarella for extra meltiness; just keep the quantities similar and the flavors will still shine alongside the broccoli.

Why is my sauce lumpy and how can I fix it?

Lumps usually happen if the milk is added too quickly or isn’t warm enough. Whisk briskly and steadily, and if needed, strain the sauce before adding cheese to smooth it out.

Final Thoughts

Once you taste your own Creamy Broccoli Casserole, it’s bound to become a regular part of your dinner rotation! It’s cheesy, satisfying, and unbelievably comforting—give it a try, and don’t be surprised if you start looking for excuses to make it again and again.

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