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Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 61 reviews

This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy side dish featuring tender broccoli florets baked in a rich mixture of cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, and parmesan cheeses with savory garlic and Italian seasoning. It’s an effortless, comforting casserole perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1½ pounds broccoli florets

Dairy

  • 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature, cut in cubes)
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

Seasonings

  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
  • Salt (to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
  2. Prepare baking dish: Grease a 2.5 to 3 quart baking dish thoroughly with butter, ensuring the casserole won’t stick.
  3. Cook broccoli: In a large skillet, bring about ½ inch of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets, cover the skillet, and cook over high heat until the broccoli is crisp-tender, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  4. Drain and transfer: Drain the cooked broccoli well and transfer it into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  5. Mix cheese and seasonings: In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and smooth.
  6. Combine broccoli and cheese mixture: Pour the cheese mixture over the broccoli in the baking dish. Stir gently to ensure the broccoli is evenly coated with the creamy cheese blend.
  7. Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 17 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and lightly browned on top.
  8. Cool and garnish: Remove from the oven and let the casserole stand for 5 minutes, allowing it to set slightly. Optionally, garnish with crushed red pepper flakes before serving for a touch of heat.

Notes

  • For a smoother texture, soften cream cheese completely at room temperature before mixing.
  • Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for best melting and flavor.
  • You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt if preferred.
  • Add a crunchy topping like breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for extra texture before baking.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, based on your preference.
  • This casserole pairs well with roasted meats or as a vegetarian main with additional protein like beans.

Keywords: broccoli cheese casserole, cheesy broccoli bake, easy casserole recipe, side dish, baked broccoli, creamy cheese casserole

Find it online: https://ricoloranz.com/broccoli-cheese-casserole-recipe/