Broccoli and Potato Cheese Bake

Today, we’re preparing a comforting and delicious Broccoli and Potato Cheese Bake. This dish is not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutritious ingredients like broccoli and potatoes. The creamy cheese sauce and the herb topping make it a perfect meal for any occasion.

Preparation Time

  • Preparation Time: 25 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

  • 1 head of broccoli
  • 500g (17.6 oz) potatoes
  • 40g (1.4 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 200g (7 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 55g (2 tablespoons) butter
  • 50g (2 tablespoons) all-purpose flour
  • 500ml (2 cups) milk
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Fresh dill, chopped (to taste)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (to taste)
  • 3 teaspoons salt, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

  • Broccoli: Wash the broccoli, cut into florets, and then chop finely. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add 1 teaspoon of salt, and blanch the broccoli for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • Potatoes: Peel and cut the potatoes into slices or cubes. In the same pot, bring water to a boil, add another teaspoon of salt, and cook the potatoes for about 7 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce:

  • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir for about 1 minute to create a roux.
  • Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and the nutmeg. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
  • Reduce the heat and add half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

4. Assemble the Bake:

  • Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
  • Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Pour some of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Add a layer of broccoli and half of the mozzarella cheese.
  • Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.

5. Bake:

  • Place in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

6. Prepare the Herb Topping:

  • In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, minced garlic, dill, and parsley.

7. Serve:

  • Once the bake is done, let it cool slightly. Serve with a dollop of the herb topping.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair this dish with a light green salad for a complete meal.
  • Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein.

Cooking Tips

  • Make sure to blanch the broccoli and parboil the potatoes to ensure they cook perfectly in the oven.
  • Whisk the cheese sauce continuously to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Broccoli: High in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, broccoli supports immune function and digestion.
  • Potatoes: A great source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6, potatoes provide energy and help maintain blood pressure.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Comforting and Delicious: The creamy cheese sauce and tender vegetables make this dish incredibly satisfying.
  • Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and minerals from the broccoli and potatoes.
  • Versatile: Suitable as a main dish or a side, perfect for any meal.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy this Broccoli and Potato Cheese Bake. It’s a wonderful combination of flavors and textures, sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!