There’s something irresistibly comforting about a creamy, cheesy casserole coming right out of the oven. Our Creamy Broccoli Casserole combines the crisp, fresh taste of broccoli with a rich, velvety cream and egg blend, topped off with a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese for that perfect golden crust. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, offering a nutritious boost with every delicious forkful.
Perfect for any day of the week, this casserole is easy to prepare and even easier to fall in love with. It’s ideal for those evenings when you need something both fulfilling and nourishing. The blend of vegetables and dairy provides a balanced meal in itself, or it can be served alongside a light salad or some crusty bread for a more rounded dinner. It’s also a fantastic way to introduce more vegetables into your diet in a way that’s appealing to both adults and children alike.
Full Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 1 broccoli head
- Water for blanching
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup (200ml) cream
- 100g (1 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
- Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Cut the broccoli head into florets and rinse under running water.
- In a pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for about 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
- Add the sliced carrots and chopped bell pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and dried basil. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Add some chopped basil.
- Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Layer the blanched broccoli florets at the bottom.
- Pour the sautéed vegetables over the broccoli. Then pour the egg and cream mixture evenly over the vegetables.
- Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for about 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hourKcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why This Recipe Works
- Flavor Harmony: The natural bitterness of broccoli is beautifully offset by the creamy, savory notes of the cheese and egg mixture, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Textural Contrast: The tender yet firm broccoli florets provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts delightfully with the soft and creamy filling.
- Visual Appeal: With its golden-brown top layer of melted Parmesan, this casserole is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Ingredients Focus
- Broccoli: Chosen not only for its health benefits, including high levels of vitamin C and dietary fiber, but also for its robust texture that holds up well under the heat of baking.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor that enhances the overall savoriness of the dish.
- Cream and Eggs: Create a luxurious custard that binds the casserole ingredients together, contributing to its moist texture and rich flavor profile.
Culinary Tips and Tricks
- Pre-Blanching the Broccoli: Blanching the broccoli florets before baking ensures they maintain a vibrant green color and just the right amount of crunch.
- Layering: Carefully layering the ingredients ensures that each bite is packed with flavor and texture. Start with broccoli, add sautéed vegetables, and finally pour the creamy mixture to achieve a uniform distribution.
- Baking to Perfection: Baking the casserole until it reaches a golden-brown color not only enhances its flavor but also ensures the eggs and cream are set to a custard-like consistency.
Serving Suggestions
- Accompaniments: While this casserole can stand alone as a main dish, it pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, a light salad, or a loaf of crusty bread.
- Variations: For a non-vegetarian twist, consider adding crispy bacon bits or diced cooked chicken to the vegetable layer for added protein and flavor.
Nutritional Information
This casserole is rich in proteins, essential fats, and vitamins. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a low-carb dinner option that still satisfies the desire for something creamy and comforting.
Mastering the Creamy Broccoli Casserole
Embracing the art of casserole making can transform your cooking experience, adding a versatile dish to your repertoire that’s perfect for nearly any occasion. Here’s how to ensure your Creamy Broccoli Casserole is a hit every time:
Optimal Ingredient Selection
- Fresh Broccoli: Choose fresh, firm broccoli with a deep green color. Avoid yellowing florets to ensure the best flavor and nutritional value.
- High-Quality Cheese: Opt for a good quality Parmesan cheese. Grating it yourself can enhance the flavor compared to pre-grated options, which often contain anti-caking agents.
- Dairy Choices: Consider using full-fat cream for the richest texture and flavor. However, for a lighter version, half-and-half or a milk and cream mixture can be used effectively.
Cooking Techniques
- Even Blanching: Make sure to blanch the broccoli just until it’s bright green and slightly tender. Overcooking can lead to mushy florets that don’t hold up well in the casserole.
- Sauté to Perfection: Sautéing the onions, carrots, and bell peppers not only softens them but also unlocks their flavors, which meld beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Baking Tips: Bake the casserole uncovered to allow the top to get deliciously browned and crispy. If you notice the top browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil towards the end of baking to prevent burning.