Looking for a warm and cozy dish that combines nutrition and comfort? My Broccoli and Cheese Casserole is just the answer! This simple recipe is easy to make and packs in flavor with fresh broccoli, creamy cheese, and tasty quinoa. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or a comforting side, this casserole hits the spot. Let’s dive into the deliciousness that awaits you!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (low-sodium)
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
To make the best broccoli and cheese casserole, fresh ingredients matter. Broccoli is the star here. I love using fresh florets because they stay bright and crisp. You can also use cooked quinoa for added protein and texture. This dish needs cheese, so I choose shredded cheddar. It melts well and tastes great. I use cream of mushroom soup for creaminess, and milk helps blend it all.
Seasonings and Toppings
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Seasonings bring flavor. Garlic and onion powders add warmth. Black pepper gives a bit of spice, while cayenne pepper adds a kick if you like heat. For the topping, I use panko breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil. This makes it crispy and golden. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds more cheese flavor, and fresh parsley brightens the dish. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare Ingredients
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Blanch the broccoli florets and set aside.
To start, you need to preheat your oven. This step warms it up for baking. While the oven heats, prepare your broccoli. Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Add the fresh broccoli florets. Blanch them for about 2-3 minutes. This makes them bright green and slightly tender. Next, remove the florets and place them in an ice bath. This stops the cooking and keeps them crisp. Drain the broccoli and set it aside for later.
Mixing the Casserole Filling
– Combine quinoa, cheese, soup, milk, and seasonings in a bowl.
Now, you can mix the filling. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Don’t forget to add your seasonings. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you want some heat. Mix everything well until it’s all blended and smooth.
Combining and Baking
– Fold in broccoli, transfer to baking dish, and prepare the topping.
– Bake until golden brown and crispy (25-30 minutes).
Next, fold in the blanched broccoli gently. You want it well-coated in the cheese mix. Once combined, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly for even cooking. Now, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil until coated. Add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole.
Finally, place the dish in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check it when the top is golden brown and crispy. Your delicious broccoli and cheese casserole is now ready to enjoy! For the full recipe, check the section above.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
Blanching broccoli is key for the best texture. When you blanch, use boiling water. Cook the broccoli for just 2-3 minutes. It should look bright green and feel slightly tender. Then, quickly move it to an ice bath. This stops the cooking and keeps the color.
To get a crispy topping, use panko breadcrumbs. They are lighter and crunchier than regular breadcrumbs. Mix them with olive oil before adding them to your casserole. This will give you that golden, crispy finish you want.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want a dairy-free option, use non-dairy milk and vegan cheese. There are many great brands that melt well. This way, you can keep the creamy texture without dairy.
You can also try different cheeses. For a sharper taste, use gouda or pepper jack. This will change the flavor profile but still taste amazing.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with a simple salad or roasted chicken. The fresh greens balance the richness of the dish. You can also serve it with some crusty bread to soak up the cheese sauce.
For a nice presentation, sprinkle fresh parsley on top just before serving. This adds color and a fresh taste to the dish. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Broccoli Bliss Casserole.
Variations
Additions and Mix-ins
You can make this casserole even better by adding protein. Cooked chicken or turkey works great. Just shred or chop it and mix it in. This adds flavor and makes the dish more filling. You can also boost nutrition by adding other veggies. Carrots, bell peppers, or even peas can mix well with broccoli. Feel free to get creative!
Different Cheese Options
Cheese is key in this dish. While cheddar is classic, you can try other cheeses. Mozzarella adds a nice stretch. Gouda brings a smoky taste. You can also blend cheeses for more flavor. A mix of sharp cheddar and creamy brie can be delicious. If you like bold flavors, try blue cheese or feta. They add a unique twist that many enjoy.
Dietary Modifications
If you need a gluten-free option, swap out the breadcrumbs. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground nuts instead. This keeps the topping crunchy without gluten. For those watching sodium, look for low-sodium soup. You can also use low-sodium cheese. This keeps the dish tasty while being healthier. Always read labels to find the best choices for your needs.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After you enjoy your broccoli and cheese casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors fresh. You can place it in the fridge and eat it within 3 to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the casserole, let it cool completely first. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some room for expansion. Seal it tightly to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, about 20-30 minutes.
Meal Prepping
You can prepare the casserole ahead of time for a quick meal. Mix all the ingredients as usual, but do not bake it yet. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze it, as mentioned above. For meal prep, use glass or plastic containers with lids that seal well. They are great for keeping the casserole fresh and easy to transport.
FAQs
How can I make broccoli and cheese casserole gluten-free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Just swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones. Many brands offer gluten-free panko breadcrumbs, which add a nice crunch. You can also check the cream of mushroom soup. Make sure it’s labeled gluten-free. For a simple twist, use oats or crushed rice crackers in place of breadcrumbs.
Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! It makes preparation faster. Simply thaw the broccoli first. You may need to adjust cooking time, as frozen broccoli can have more moisture. Drain excess water before mixing it into the casserole. This will help keep the dish from becoming too watery.
What type of cheese is best for a broccoli and cheese casserole?
For a great mix of flavor and melt, I recommend sharp cheddar cheese. It adds a bold taste. You can also mix in Monterey Jack or Gouda for a creamy texture. If you want a stronger kick, try adding some blue cheese or pepper jack. These choices really enhance the dish’s flavor.
How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
To keep your casserole from being watery, start by blanching the broccoli. This helps remove excess moisture. After cooking, always drain the broccoli well. Another tip is to use less liquid in the soup or milk. If needed, you can add extra breadcrumbs to absorb moisture during baking. These steps will help you achieve a perfect texture.
This blog post shared a simple recipe for a delicious broccoli and cheese casserole. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You can also explore variations for different diets and preferences.
Overall, this dish is great for family dinners or meal prep. With easy tweaks, it can fit anyone’s taste. Enjoy making this tasty casserole and impress your loved ones!
