The Cheesy Broccoli Bake is a delicious, comforting side dish that combines the earthy goodness of broccoli with the creamy richness of a homemade cheese sauce. This recipe layers tender broccoli with a smooth, cheesy béchamel sauce, enhanced by cheddar and mozzarella, for a delightful, gooey finish. Whether you’re preparing this for a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday meal, it’s sure to become a crowd-pleaser.

Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. When paired with cheese, it transforms into a dish that’s both healthy and indulgent. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but also elegant enough to serve at special gatherings.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• Broccoli: 500 g (about one large head)
• Salt: 2 tsp (divided)
• Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
• Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
• Bay leaf: 1 pc
• Butter: 1 tbsp
• Flour: 1 tbsp
• Milk: 200 ml
• Cheddar cheese: A few slices (approximately 50 g)
• Mozzarella cheese: A handful, shredded (about 50 g)

Instructions (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

• Clean and cut the broccoli: Start by rinsing the broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Cut the broccoli into medium-sized florets, making sure to include some of the stem as well. The stems can be peeled to remove the tough outer layer and then cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Blanch the broccoli: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tsp of salt. Add the broccoli florets and the peeled stems to the boiling water. Blanch them for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are tender but still crisp. Immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

• Create a roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously to create a roux. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes until it is golden and smooth, being careful not to let it brown.
• Add the milk: Gradually pour the milk into the roux while continuing to whisk. This will help prevent lumps and ensure a smooth sauce. Add the bay leaf for a subtle, earthy flavor. Cook the mixture for 4-5 minutes, whisking frequently, until it thickens into a creamy sauce.
• Season the sauce: Remove the bay leaf and season the béchamel sauce with the remaining 1 tsp of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well to combine.
• Incorporate the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the cheddar cheese slices to the sauce. Stir until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce is creamy. For an extra layer of gooeyness, add some of the shredded mozzarella and stir until combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

• Prepare the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish.
• Layer the broccoli and sauce: Place the drained broccoli florets in an even layer at the bottom of the baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the top, making sure the broccoli is fully coated.
• Top with mozzarella: Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top for a melty, golden finish.

Step 4: Bake

• Bake the dish: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese on top is bubbly and lightly golden. If you prefer a more browned top, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning.
• Serve: Once the Cheesy Broccoli Bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes serving easier.

Cooking Tips

• Blanching the broccoli: Blanching helps preserve the vibrant green color of the broccoli while also partially cooking it. Be sure to quickly cool the broccoli in ice water after blanching to stop the cooking process and maintain its crispness.
• Cheese selection: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyère, fontina, or even a sharp white cheddar would work well in this recipe. Mozzarella adds a nice stretchiness, but it can be substituted with other mild cheeses if desired.
• Consistency of the sauce: If your sauce is too thick, add a little extra milk, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. It should be creamy but still pourable.
• Extra flavor: For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce or a small amount of Dijon mustard for a subtle tangy kick.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Leftover Cheesy Broccoli Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the dish and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, allow the dish to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fat: 16 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Calcium: 180 mg
• Sodium: 600 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
   • Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but fresh broccoli is preferred for its texture. If using frozen, thaw it first and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before baking.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
3. How can I make this dish healthier?
   • To make a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cheese and substitute the milk with low-fat or plant-based milk. Using a smaller amount of a stronger-flavored cheese like Parmesan can also reduce calories while maintaining flavor.
4. What should I serve with this Cheesy Broccoli Bake?
   • This dish works great as a side for roasted chicken, grilled fish, or steak. It can also be served as a vegetarian main course alongside a hearty salad or crusty bread.
5. How can I prevent my cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
   • The key is to add the cheese gradually and stir it in over low heat. Too high of a temperature can cause the cheese to seize and become grainy. Make sure the sauce is not boiling when you add the cheese.

Conclusion

Cheesy Broccoli Bake is a comforting, versatile dish that combines the goodness of broccoli with the indulgent creaminess of cheese. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a holiday feast. With its rich flavors, crispy top, and smooth interior, this bake is bound to become a family favorite. The combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates a gooey, satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with the tender broccoli. Whether you’re making it as a side dish or a light vegetarian main course, this recipe is sure to please.

Enjoy your meal!