Cheesy Broccoli Bake
Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
Ingredients
- 5 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp paprika (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
Optional Topping
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Prepare the broccoli
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil broccoli for 2–3 minutes, then drain well.
- Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Make the cheese sauce
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in milk (and cream if using).
- Cook until thickened, about 4–5 minutes.
- Add garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Stir in cheddar, Parmesan, and 1 cup mozzarella until melted and smooth.
3. Assemble
- Spread broccoli in a greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Pour cheese sauce evenly over the broccoli.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mozzarella on top.
- Add breadcrumb topping if using.
4. Bake
- Bake for 20–25 minutes.
- Broil for 2–3 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Serve
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Extra Cheese Pull
- Use low-moisture whole milk mozzarella (not fresh mozzarella).
- Broil only until lightly browned.
- Serve immediately while hot.
