Ingredients

• Broccoli: 500 g, chopped into florets
• Potatoes: 2 medium, peeled and cubed
• Cheese: 100 g, shredded (Cheddar or your preferred melting cheese)
• Butter: 1 tablespoon
• Flour: 3 tablespoons
• Milk: 1/2 liter (500 ml)
• Salt: 2 teaspoons
• Black pepper: A pinch
• Optional garnishes: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives

Instructions (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Peel and cut the potatoes: Start by peeling the 2 medium potatoes and cutting them into cubes, approximately 1-inch in size. These will cook more evenly in this shape.
2. Boil the potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a pot of water with a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil and let the potatoes cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
3. Blanch the broccoli: While the potatoes are boiling, prepare the broccoli. Chop the 500 g of broccoli into bite-sized florets. Bring another pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the broccoli for 3-4 minutes, until bright green and just tender. Drain the broccoli and set aside. Blanching will help maintain its color and texture when baked.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Melt the butter: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Be sure to watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.
2. Make a roux: Once the butter has melted, add 3 tablespoons of flour to the saucepan. Stir continuously with a whisk to combine the flour and butter into a smooth paste. This is called a roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
3. Add the milk: Slowly pour in 1/2 liter of milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the sauce begins to thicken. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
4. Season the sauce: Add 2 teaspoons of salt and a pinch of black pepper to the sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
5. Melt the cheese: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in 100 g of shredded cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has fully melted into the sauce, making it smooth and creamy. Set the sauce aside once ready.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Combine the vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the boiled potatoes and blanched broccoli. Toss them together gently to distribute the vegetables evenly.
3. Pour the cheese sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli and potatoes, stirring gently to coat the vegetables evenly with the sauce.
4. Transfer to a baking dish: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
5. Optional extra cheese: If you want an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle an additional handful of shredded cheese on top before baking.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake the casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
2. Let it rest: Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to set and make it easier to serve.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve hot: Scoop generous portions of the casserole onto plates and enjoy it as a side dish or a main meal. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
2. Pairings: This casserole pairs well with grilled meats, a fresh salad, or crusty bread.

Cooking Tips

• Cheese options: Cheddar is a great choice for this recipe, but you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor. If you want a more intense flavor, try using sharp cheddar or even a bit of Parmesan for added depth.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it with foil and bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through evenly.
• For a crispier top: If you prefer a crispy top, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the casserole before baking. This will create a crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy filling.
• Add protein: For a heartier meal, you can add cooked chicken, ham, or bacon to the casserole. Simply stir in cooked and diced protein when you combine the potatoes and broccoli.
• Vegetable variations: Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as cauliflower, carrots, or peas for variety. You can blanch or steam these vegetables the same way you prepare the broccoli.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions.
• Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It will last up to 2 months in the freezer. To bake from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, or bake directly from frozen, adding about 20 minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Calcium: 25% DV
• Iron: 6% DV

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
   • Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it first and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
2. What type of cheese works best for this casserole?
   • Cheddar is the go-to cheese for this casserole because it melts well and adds a sharp flavor. However, you can use mozzarella for a milder taste, Gruyère for a nuttier flavor, or even a blend of cheeses.
3. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
   • Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Just be sure to whisk well to avoid lumps.
4. How can I make the casserole healthier?
   • To lighten the dish, you can use low-fat milk and cheese. You can also reduce the amount of butter or replace it with olive oil. Additionally, you can add more vegetables to increase the nutritional value.
5. What can I serve with this casserole?
   • This casserole pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. For a lighter option, serve it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.

Conclusion

Creamy broccoli and potato cheese casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending the flavors of tender broccoli, soft potatoes, and a rich, cheesy sauce into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this casserole is sure to satisfy with its creamy texture and savory flavors. The dish is easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Serve it at family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, and watch it become a crowd favorite. Enjoy this cheesy, hearty casserole with your favorite sides for a wholesome and delicious meal!