Broccoli is a versatile vegetable that’s not only packed with nutrients but also incredibly delicious when prepared correctly. This easy broccoli recipe with mozzarella cheese is a fantastic way to elevate your broccoli game. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light meal, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds. The rich, gooey mozzarella perfectly complements the tender broccoli, creating a dish that’s both comforting and healthy.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe requires just a few basic ingredients, making it an easy go-to option for any meal.
- Quick Preparation: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: Serve it as a side dish with your favorite protein, or enjoy it on its own for a light yet satisfying meal.
- Healthy: Broccoli is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making this dish as nutritious as it is tasty.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 500g broccoli, cut into florets: Fresh broccoli is not only healthy but also adds a vibrant color to the dish. If you prefer, you can also use frozen broccoli, though the texture may vary slightly.
- 250g mozzarella cheese, shredded: Mozzarella is the perfect cheese for this dish, offering a mild flavor that melts beautifully over the broccoli. You can also experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.
- 3 eggs: Eggs are essential for binding the ingredients together and providing a rich, custard-like texture to the dish.
- Salt to taste: Adjust according to your preference. Remember that mozzarella has a bit of saltiness, so you may not need much.
- Pepper to taste: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle heat that balances the creaminess of the cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Begin by washing the broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Cut it into medium-sized florets, making sure they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 3-4 minutes. Blanching is key to preserving the broccoli’s bright green color and slightly crisp texture.
- After blanching, drain the broccoli and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking process and keeps the broccoli vibrant and firm.
- Prepare the Cheese and Egg Mixture:
- While the broccoli cools, crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl. Beat them lightly until the yolks and whites are fully combined.
- Add the shredded mozzarella cheese to the eggs and stir until the cheese is evenly mixed. The cheese will help to thicken the mixture and create a creamy base for the broccoli.
- Season with salt and pepper. Remember, the cheese already adds some saltiness, so be cautious with the amount of salt you add.
- Combine and Assemble:
- Once the broccoli has cooled and drained, gently fold it into the egg and cheese mixture. Make sure the broccoli is evenly coated with the cheesy egg mixture.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking. Pour the broccoli mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The dish is ready when the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For an extra crispy top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Just be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help the flavors to settle and make it easier to serve.
- Serve the broccoli casserole warm, either as a side dish or a main course. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or a simple green salad.
- For a bit of freshness, garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Blanching the Broccoli: Don’t skip the blanching step! It helps maintain the broccoli’s color and texture, ensuring that it doesn’t become too soft during baking.
- Cheese Alternatives: While mozzarella is a classic choice, feel free to mix it up with other cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, or gouda for a different flavor.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Variations to Try:
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add cooked chicken, ham, or crispy bacon to the mixture before baking.
- Vegetarian Delight: Mix in other veggies like sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.
Conclusion:
This easy broccoli recipe with mozzarella is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy one of nature’s most nutritious vegetables. The creamy cheese and tender broccoli make for a comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a light main course, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s such a hit! Enjoy your cooking!